Which of the following statements best explains why transition metals lose electrons from s orbitals before d orbitals?
A)Electrons from s orbitals are lower in energy than d orbitals.
B)The d orbitals experience a greater drop in energy when electrons are removed.
C)Electrons from d orbitals are less shielded from the nucleus than electrons in s orbitals.
D)Electrons in s orbitals are paired.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The d orbitals experience a greater drop in energy when electrons are removed, which makes it energetically more favorable for transition metals to lose electrons from their s orbitals before the d orbitals. This is because the removal of electrons from the s orbital decreases the electron-electron repulsion in the atom, leading to a more stable configuration.

Which of the Following Statements Best Explains Why Transition Metals