electronic configuration

Question

The number of unpaired electrons in Fe²⁺ (Z = 26) is:

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Neutral Atom $Fe$ ($Z=26$)**: $[Ar] 3d^6 4s^2$
2. **Ion $Fe^{2+}$**: Electrons are always removed first from the outermost shell ($n=4$).
- $Fe^{2+} = [Ar] 3d^6$
3. **Distribution in 3d subshell**: Applying **Hund's Rule** (occupy degenerate orbitals singly first):
- $d_{xy}^2 d_{yz}^1 d_{zx}^1 d_{x^2-y^2}^1 d_{z^2}^1$
- Orbitals with single electrons: 4
- Thus, number of unpaired electrons is 4.

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The electronic configuration of chromium (Z = 24) is: