Chapter 7, Problem 59A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The formation of cations of Scandium from orbital notation needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The electronic configuration of elements indicates the filling of electrons in different energy levels based on its atomic number. It is usually depicted through orbital box diagrams wherein the boxes are identified using Aufbau’s principle. The box represents each orbital and electrons are marked as half arrow indicating one electron and its spin. Two half arrows indicate two electrons. The arrangement of half arrows is such that it represents the opposite spins.

Answer to Problem 59A

Scandium can form ${\text{Sc}}^{\text{3+}}$ as it can give up 3 outermost or valence electrons to get a stable octet configuration.

Explanation of Solution

The element Scandium belongs to group 3. Its atomic number is 21. The electronic configuration is ${\text{1s}}^2{\text{2s}}^2{\text{2p}}^6{\text{3s}}^2{\text{3p}}^6{\text{3d}}^{\text{1}}{\text{4s}}^2$.

Its orbital notation is given as

Figure 1

From the orbital notation, it can be seen that the outermost electrons are in 4s and 3d. The force of attraction between nucleus and these outermost electrons is decreased due to the shielding effect of the other energy shells. Hence, this element can easily let go of the 3 valence electrons. Hence, Scandium will give up 3 electrons to form ${\text{Sc}}^{\text{3+}}$

Conclusion

Scandium can form ${\text{Sc}}^{\text{3+}}$ as it can give up 3 outermost or valence electrons to get a stable octet configuration.