AAMC CBT 5, valence electron question

[davcro]

4s2 wasn't an option, but if it was, wouldn't 4s2 electrons react first?

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[MedPR]

I don't think so. 4s will be full and won't want to share or be shared with another atom. Even though 4s electrons are lost/gained first, I'm pretty sure the d shell electrons are the bonding ones since there are empty orbitals within d.

 

[davcro]

Okay, so the main theory is that atoms are trying to fill all their orbitals. That's why Copper is 4s1, 3d10. It gives up one s electron to fill its d orbital.

 

[MedPR]

Okay, so the main theory is that atoms are trying to fill all their orbitals. That's why Copper is 4s1, 3d10. It gives up one s electron to fill its d orbital.

Yea, a half full s and a completely full d is more favorable. I don't remember exactly what transition metal(s) it is, but there are some that will do 4s13d5 too instead of 4s23d4. I don't have a periodic table right now so I can't give you a name.