Chapter 20, Problem 21E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The electron configuration of each element $\text{Ni},\text{Cd},\text{Zr}$ and $\text{OS}$ is to be stated.

Concept introduction: Valence electrons are filled in four principal orbitals according to the energy levels. The four orbitals are $s,p,d$ and $f$.

The metals from group $\text{3-12}$ are known as first row transition metals. The general form of valence electron configuration of these metals is,

$\left[\text{Nobel}\text{gas}\right]n{f}^{\text{x}}n{d}^{\text{y}}n{s}^{\text{z}}$

The distribution of electrons among different orbitals is given by electron configuration.