Final answer:
The electronic configuration of tantalum (Ta) is best described by option (b), which indicates variable oxidation states and high melting points. The given configuration, 2, 8, 18, 32, 11, 2, is consistent with the known properties of transition metals, particularly their ability to form compounds with multiple oxidation states.
Step-by-step explanation:
The electronic configuration of tantalum (Ta) reflects its properties as a transition metal. Transition metals are characterized by their variable oxidation states, which relate to the ability of their atoms to lose different numbers of electrons (oxidation number). This feature contributes to behaviors such as catalytic activity or high melting points. From the choices provided, the electronic configuration of tantalum (Ta) is 2, 8, 18, 32, 11, 2. The properties commonly associated with transition metals and this electronic configuration in particular would include variable oxidation states and high melting points, which most closely matches option (b).
To further elucidate, metals like iron and copper demonstrate a range of oxidation states due to the removal of d-orbital electrons, making option (b) an appropriate description for transition metals. For tantalum, with an electronic configuration of 2, 8, 18, 32, 11, 2, it loses its 4s electrons before the 3d electrons, aligning with the behavior of transition metals that can form compounds with varying oxidation states.