Question

Out of Mn\(^{2+}\) and Zn\(^{2+}\), which ion will be more paramagnetic and why? (Atomic numbers: Mn = 25, Zn = 30)

Hint:

More unpaired electrons → Greater paramagnetism.

Answer 1

Electronic configurations: Mn (Z = 25): \[ [Ar]\,3d^5 4s^2 \Rightarrow Mn^{2+} = 3d^5 \] Zn (Z = 30): \[ [Ar]\,3d^{10}4s^2 \Rightarrow Zn^{2+} = 3d^{10} \]
Magnetic nature:

• Mn\(^{2+}\): 5 unpaired electrons → highly paramagnetic
• Zn\(^{2+}\): No unpaired electrons → diamagnetic

\[ \therefore Mn^{2+} \text{ is more paramagnetic. \]