Question

Electronic configuration of na+ is (2,8) and that of sodium element is (2,8,1). Choose the correct statements.

I. Na+ (g) is more stable than na(g).
Ii. Na+ (g) is less stable than na(g).
Iii. Na+ (aq) is more stable than na(aq).
Iv. Na+ (aq) is less stable than na(aq)
A ii, iii
B i, iii
C ii, iv
D i, iv

Answer 1

The sodium ion (Na+) has a more stable electronic configuration than the neutral sodium atom, both in gaseous and aqueous forms (option I and III), due to achieving a noble gas configuration and the hydration by water molecules, respectively. The correct answer is option: B i, iii.

Step-by-step explanation:

• The electronic configuration of Na+ is (2,8), indicating it has lost an electron compared to the neutral sodium atom, which has an electronic configuration of (2,8,1).
• The loss of the valence electron allows sodium to achieve a stable noble gas electron configuration, which makes Na+ (g) more stable than neutral Na (g).
• When considering sodium in aqueous solution, Na+ (aq), it becomes even more stable than the gaseous ion due to the hydration by water molecules.
• Therefore, statement I and III are correct, making the correct answer to the combination of statements 'Na+ (g) is more stable than Na (g)' and 'Na+ (aq) is more stable than Na (aq)' B. i, iii.