Multiple Choice
What is the maximum number of unpaired d electrons that an atom or ion can possess?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How many electrons are present in the outer (valence) shell of an Al^{3+} ion?
A
1
B
0
C
8
D
3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of aluminum (Al), which is 13. This means a neutral Al atom has 13 electrons.
Determine the electron configuration of a neutral Al atom. The configuration is $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^1$.
Recognize that the outer (valence) shell for aluminum is the third shell, containing the electrons in the $3s$ and $3p$ orbitals, totaling 3 valence electrons.
Consider the charge of the ion, Al$^{3+}$, which means the atom has lost 3 electrons. These electrons are removed from the outermost shell first.
Subtract the 3 lost electrons from the 3 valence electrons, resulting in zero electrons remaining in the outer shell of the Al$^{3+}$ ion.
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