Write the ground‑state electron configuration of the element scandium (Z = 21) and state whether it belongs to the d‑block or f‑block.
Answer
Ground‑state configuration: [Ar] 3d^1 4s^2. It belongs to the d‑block.
The correct answer is Ground‑state configuration: [Ar] 3d^1 4s^2. It belongs to the d‑block. — Transition metals occupy the d‑block, so Sc is a d‑block element.
Step-by-step solution
- Scandium has atomic number 21, so fill orbitals up to 3d.
- The 4s orbital is filled before 3d in the ground state, giving 4s^2.
- After 4s, the next electrons occupy 3d, giving 3d^1.
- Combine to get [Ar] 3d^1 4s^2.
- Transition metals occupy the d‑block, so Sc is a d‑block element.
Common mistake: Misplacing 4s and 3d electrons or misclassifying block
Concept tested: Electron configuration of transition metals
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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