Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for zirconium (Zr, atomic number 40)?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
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Which of the following represents the electron configuration of silver (Ag) in its ground state?
A
[Kr] 4d^9 5s^2
B
[Kr] 4d^8 5s^2
C
[Kr] 4d^{10} 5s^2
D
[Kr] 4d^{10} 5s^1
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that silver (Ag) has an atomic number of 47, meaning it has 47 electrons in its neutral ground state.
Start by writing the electron configuration up to the noble gas preceding silver, which is krypton (Kr), representing the first 36 electrons: $[\text{Kr}]$.
Next, fill the 4d and 5s orbitals with the remaining 11 electrons, remembering the order of filling orbitals and the total electrons to place beyond krypton.
Consider the stability associated with completely filled or half-filled d subshells, which can cause exceptions to the expected filling order.
Use this knowledge to determine that silver's ground state configuration is $[\text{Kr}]\ 4d^{10}\ 5s^{1}$, reflecting the extra stability of a filled 4d subshell and a single electron in 5s.
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