Question

The electronic configuration of Cu(ii) is 3d⁹ whereas that of Cu(i) is 3d¹⁰. whichof the following is correct?

(i) Cu(ii) is more stable
(ii) Cu(ii) is less stable
(iii) Cu(i) and Cu(ii) are equally stable
(iv) stability of Cu(i) and Cu(ii) depends on the nature of copper salts

Answer 1

Cu(II) with a configuration of 3d⁹ has an incomplete d level, while Cu(I) with a configuration of 3d¹⁰ has a completed shell, often forming colorless complexes. The stability of both ions can depend on the type of copper salts they form. So the correct answer is option 4.

Step-by-step explanation:

The electronic configuration of Cu(II) is 3d⁹, which is formed when copper loses the 4s electron and one of the 3d electrons becomes Cu²⁺ with a structure of [Ar]3d⁹. On the other hand, Cu(I) possesses an electronic configuration of 3d¹⁰.

The latter is the electronic configuration of a neutral copper atom, which upon losing one electron becomes Cu⁺ with a configuration of [Ar]3d¹⁰. Both configurations exhibit unique properties. Cu(I) tends to form colorless complexes such as CuI, and it is stable due to a completely filled 3d subshell.

In contrast, Cu(II) is more commonly found in brightly colored complexes such as Cu(NO3)2.5H2O with an incomplete d level, signifying a transition metal property. The stability of these ions can often depend on the nature of the copper salts and the specific conditions of the chemical environment.