Gold's Electron Configuration and Stability

This video tutorial explains the electron configuration for gold (Au), highlighting its exception to typical patterns. It discusses the periodic table's role in predicting configurations and the stability of transition metals. The video corrects the common configuration for gold, emphasizing the stability of full or half-full d orbitals. The final configuration for gold is 5d10 6s1, which is more stable than the expected 5d9 6s2. The tutorial concludes with a summary of these concepts.

What is unique about the electron configuration of gold compared to other elements?

• It is an exception and requires special consideration.

• It follows the standard periodic table pattern.

• It has fewer electrons than expected.

• It has an extra electron in the s orbital.

According to the periodic table, where should the electron configuration of gold end?

• 5d10

• 4f14

• 6s2

• 5d9

Why is the electron configuration 5d9 6s2 not correct for gold?

• Because the f orbital should be filled first.

• Because the s orbital should be empty.

• Because gold has more electrons than this configuration shows.

• Because gold is more stable with a full or half-full d orbital.

What happens to the electron from the 6s orbital in gold's electron configuration?

• It moves to the 5d orbital.

• It is removed entirely.

• It stays in the 6s orbital.

• It moves to the 4f orbital.

What is the final electron configuration for gold?

• 4f14 5d9

• 5d10 6s1

• 5d9 6s2

• 5d8 6s2

Why is it more stable for gold to have a full 5d orbital?

• Because full d orbitals are heavier.

• Because full d orbitals are more stable.

• Because full d orbitals have lower energy.

• Because full d orbitals are less reactive.

What is the significance of having a half-full d orbital?

• It provides maximum stability.

• It decreases the atomic radius.

• It increases the atomic mass.

• It increases the reactivity.

What is the role of the 6s orbital in gold's electron configuration?

• It is completely filled.

• It has one electron.

• It is half-filled.

• It is empty.

How does the electron configuration of gold reflect its position in the periodic table?

• It follows the expected pattern without exceptions.

• It has fewer electrons than expected.

• It has more electrons than expected.

• It shows a unique rearrangement for stability.

What is the main takeaway about d orbitals from the video?

• They do not affect stability.

• They are always half-filled.

• They are more stable when full or half-full.

• They are less stable than s orbitals.