7 Steps On Rutherfordium Electron Configuration:How to Write

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Electron configuration aids in locating position of an element in the periodic table and comprehending its chemical nature. Let us discuss electron configuration of Rutherfordium.

The electron configuration of Rutherfordium (Rf), in condensed form is [Rn] 5f14 6d1 7s2 . It is a d-block transition metal with atomic number 104. It is classified as the first transactinide element. It is a man-made radioactive element. It is present in the solid state and has a very high melting and boiling point.

Let us deliberate on Rutherfordium’s electronic configuration by focusing on how to write Rf configuration and electronic notation.

How to Write Rutherfordium Electron Configuration

The Rf element has 104 electrons. Following are the steps to write electron configuration:

  • Electrons are filled in s, p, d, and f orbitals based on increasing energy levels, in accordance with the Aufbau principle.
  • The pairing of electrons occurs after each orbital is singly filled according to Hund’s rule.
  • The paired electrons must be of opposite spin as per the Pauli exclusion principle.
  • The electron configuration is finally represented in compliance with each orbital’s maximum electron holding capacity. (s=2, p=6, d=10, f=14)

Rutherfordium Electron Configuration Diagram

Rutherfordium electron configuration as conforming to the Aufbau principle is shown below:

Screenshot 2022 11 19 121315
Rf electron configuration via Aufbau Principle

Rutherfordium Electron Configuration Notation

The electron configuration notation of Rutherfordium is: [Rn] 5f14 6d2 7s2.

Rutherfordium Unabbreviated Electron Configuration

Rutherfordium unabbreviated electron configuration is:

1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s2 4p6 4d10 4f14 5s2 5p6 5d10 5f14 6s2 6p6 6d27s2.

Ground state Rutherfordium Electron Configuration

The ground state Rutherfordium electron configuration is [Rn] 5f14 6d2 7s2.

Excited State of Rutherfordium Electron Configuration

The electron configuration of Rutherfordium in the excited state is [Rn] 5f14 6d1 7s2, as in the excited state, one of the valence electrons in the 6d orbital gets excited to a higher orbital position.

Ground state Rutherfordium orbital diagram

Rutherfordium ground state orbital diagram depicting electrons per energy level is shown below:

Screenshot 2022 11 19 131453
Rf Ground state Orbital diagram

Conclusion

This article clearly depicts the fact that Rutherfordium has only five completely filled shells, and is paramagnetic in nature. Of the several isotopes known, 263Ru is the most stable isotope with a half-life of 10 minutes.

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