Chemistry Transition Elements MDCAT 2019
PMDC Verified Question 44 of 68
Copper is a typical transition metal. Its atomic number is 29. In which oxidation state does it have partially filled orbital in d-subshell?
A
\( Cu \)
B
\( Cu^{2+} \)
C
\( Cu^{-} \)
D
\( Cu^{+} \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: \( Cu^{2+} \)
Concept:

A typical transition metal is defined as an element that has a partially filled \(d\)-subshell in either its neutral ground state or in one of its common oxidation states.

Solution:

  • Neutral Copper (\(Cu\)) has the configuration \([Ar] \; 3d^{10} \; 4s^1\). Its \(d\)-subshell is completely filled.


  • In the \(+1\) oxidation state (\(Cu^{+}\)), the \(4s\) electron is lost: \([Ar] \; 3d^{10}\). The \(d\)-subshell is still completely filled.


  • In the \(+2\) oxidation state (\(Cu^{2+}\)), one \(4s\) electron and one \(3d\) electron are lost: \([Ar] \; 3d^9\).


  • The \(3d^9\) configuration means the \(d\)-subshell is partially filled, which is why copper is classified as a typical transition metal.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • \(Cu\) and \(Cu^{+}\) both have completely filled \(d^{10}\) orbitals.

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