Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents the correct electron configuration for a neutral atom of zinc (Zn)?
3
views
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following represents the correct electron configuration for the Ba^{2+} ion?
A
[Xe]
B
[Kr] 5s^2 4d^{10}
C
[Ba] 2+
D
[Xe] 6s^2
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the atomic number of barium (Ba), which is 56, and write its ground-state electron configuration. The full configuration for neutral Ba is $[Xe] 6s^2$, where $[Xe]$ represents the electron configuration of xenon (54 electrons).
Step 2: Understand that the Ba$^{2+}$ ion is formed by removing two electrons from the neutral Ba atom. Since electrons are removed first from the outermost shell, remove the two 6s electrons.
Step 3: After removing the two 6s electrons, the electron configuration of Ba$^{2+}$ becomes the same as that of xenon, which is $[Xe]$.
Step 4: Compare the given options with the expected electron configuration for Ba$^{2+}$. The correct configuration should match $[Xe]$ without the 6s electrons.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct electron configuration for Ba$^{2+}$ is $[Xe]$, as it reflects the removal of the two 6s electrons from neutral barium.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations