147k views
5 votes
Which electron configuration represents Fe2+ ions?

A) [Ar]3d4
B) [Ar]3d6
C) [Ar]4s23d4
D) [Kr]3d6
E) [Ar]3d8

User Padel
by
8.0k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

The correct electron configuration for Fe2+ ions is B) [Ar]3d6, since the 4s electrons are removed first when iron forms a 2+ ion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which electron configuration represents Fe2+ ions. The atomic number of iron (Fe) is 26, which normally has a configuration of [Ar] 4s2 3d6. However, when Fe loses two electrons to form Fe2+, the electrons are removed from the 4s orbital first, giving us [Ar]3d6. Therefore, the correct electron configuration for Fe2+ is option B) [Ar]3d6.

User John David
by
7.7k points