Question:

Identify the ion having 4f\(^6\) electronic configuration.

Updated On: Apr 3, 2025
  • Gd\(^{3+}\)
  • Sm\(^{3+}\)
  • Sm\(^{2+}\)
  • Tb\(^{3+}\)
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is C

Approach Solution - 1

The electronic configuration of Gd (Gadolinium) is [Xe] 4f7 5d1 6s2. When Gd loses 3 electrons (one from the 6s orbital and two from the 5d orbital), it becomes Gd3+ with the electronic configuration [Xe] 4f7. This configuration does *not* match 4f6.

The electronic configuration of Sm (Samarium) is [Xe] 4f6 6s2. When Sm loses 2 electrons from the 6s orbital, it becomes Sm2+ with the configuration [Xe] 4f6. This matches the given 4f6 configuration.

The configuration of Sm3+ is [Xe] 4f5, and that of Tb3+ (Terbium) is [Xe] 4f8. Neither of these matches the required configuration.

Therefore, the ion with a 4f6 configuration is Sm2+.

Was this answer helpful?
0
0
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

Approach Solution -2

Correct Answer:

Option 3: Sm2+

Explanation:

1. Gd3+ (Gadolinium(III) ion):

Gd: [Xe] 4f7 5d1 6s2

Gd3+: [Xe] 4f7

2. Sm3+ (Samarium(III) ion):

Sm: [Xe] 4f6 6s2

Sm3+: [Xe] 4f5

3. Sm2+ (Samarium(II) ion):

Sm: [Xe] 4f6 6s2

Sm2+: [Xe] 4f6

4. Tb3+ (Terbium(III) ion):

Tb: [Xe] 4f9 6s2

Tb3+: [Xe] 4f8

Therefore, Sm2+ has the 4f6 electronic configuration.

Was this answer helpful?
0
0