d and f BLOCK ELEMENTS

What is the electronic configuration of Promethium (Pm)?

• [Xe] 4f4 5d1 6s2
• [Xe] 4f5 6s2
• [Xe] 4f6 6s2
• [Xe] 4f3 5d2 6s2

What is the electronic configuration of Cerium (Ce)?

• [Xe] 4f2 6s2
• [Xe] 4f1 5d1 6s2
• [Xe] 4f0 5d2 6s2
• [Xe] 5d2 6s2

What is the electronic configuration of Lanthanum (La)?

• [Xe] 4f1 6s2
• [Xe] 4f1 5d1 6s2
• [Xe] 5d1 6s2
• [Xe] 4f0 5d0 6s2

Why do some Lanthanoids like Ce and Yb show stable +4 and +2 oxidation states respectively?

• Because they have fewer electrons.
• Because they are radioactive.
• Because these states lead to stable electronic configurations (noble gas for Ce4+, half-filled or fully-filled f-subshell for others).
• Because they are heavier elements.

What is the common oxidation state of Ytterbium (Yb) in its compounds, besides +3?

• +1
• +2
• +4
• 0