Question

The recently discovered element 114 should most closely resemble Pb. (a) Write the electron configuration of \(\mathrm{Pb}\). (b) Propose a plausible electron configuration for \(8 \equiv\) element 114.

Short answer

The electron configuration of Pb is \([Kr] 4d^{10} 5s^{2} 5p^{6} 4f^{14} 5d^{10} 6s^{2} 6p^{2}\). A plausible electron configuration for element 114 is \([Rn] 5f^{14} 6d^{10} 7s^{2} 7p^{2}\).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Electron Configuration of Pb (Lead)

Given that its atomic number is 82, the electron configuration of Lead (Pb) can be determined by filling electrons according to the Aufbau principle. The electron configuration for Pb is \([Kr] 4d^{10} 5s^{2} 5p^{6} 4f^{14} 5d^{10} 6s^{2} 6p^{2}\).

Predict the Electron Configuration of Element 114

Knowing that elements in the same group in the periodic table have similar properties due to their similar electron configurations, the element 114 should resemble Pb. This is because they belong to the same group (Group 14). The last electron enters the p-orbital same as in Pb. Therefore, the electron configuration may be derived from that of Pb by adding 32 more electrons (difference between 114 and 82), which would be inserted according to Aufbau principle. The plausible electron configuration of element 114 could be \([Rn] 5f^{14} 6d^{10} 7s^{2} 7p^{2}\).

Key concepts

Element 114

Element 114, also known as Flerovium (Fl), is one of the synthetic elements present on the periodic table. It is placed in the same group as lead (Pb) and shares similar properties with other elements in Group 14. Because it is a super-heavy element, Flerovium is highly unstable and only exists momentarily. Its creation involves bombarding lighter elements in a lab setting.

When examining its electron configuration, we can predict that Flerovium will follow the general pattern seen in other Group 14 elements. This pattern helps chemists understand how this element might interact with others chemically. Although Element 114 is an extremely unlikely candidate for everyday applications due to its rapid decay, studying these synthetic elements provides insight into the forces at play in atomic nuclei and helps enhance our understanding of matter.

Understanding elements like Flerovium is essential for scientists who are attempting to expand the periodic table further and explore the limits of atomic stability. This synthesizing of elements pushes the boundaries of what we know about chemistry.

Periodic Table

The periodic table is a systematic arrangement of elements based on their atomic numbers, electron configurations, and recurrent chemical properties. Each element is placed in a specific spot that visually demonstrates patterns in electron configuration and general properties.

• Groups: The vertical columns in the periodic table are called groups. Elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons and often exhibit similar chemical characteristics.
• Periods: The horizontal rows are called periods. As you move across a period from left to right, the atomic number increases, indicating that each subsequent element has one more proton and electron.
• Blocks: The periodic table can be divided into blocks, each containing elements with similar electron subshell filling properties. These are labeled as s, p, d, and f blocks.

Element 114’s position reflects its properties and its electron configuration follows the established trends of the periodic table. Recognizing these patterns helps students and scientists predict how elements will behave in reactions, guiding their understanding of chemical processes. The periodic table is more than just a list of elements; it's a valuable tool for chemists, showcasing the elegant simplicity of natural order.

Aufbau Principle

The Aufbau principle is a fundamental concept for understanding electron configurations in atoms. It states that electrons occupy the lowest energy orbitals first before filling higher energy levels. This principle helps in determining the distributions of electrons in an atom’s electron shells.

When predicting electron configurations of elements like lead (Pb) or the newly discovered element 114, the Aufbau principle plays a crucial role. Electrons fill orbitals in an order that minimizes the atom's energy. Here's how it generally works:

• Lower energy orbitals, like 1s, are filled before orbitals with higher energy, such as 2s and 2p.
• Within a shell, electrons fill s orbitals before p orbitals.
• Electrons will fill f orbitals after d orbitals once the principal shell is larger.

For Element 114, once lead’s configuration is known, extra electrons follow the Aufbau principle to predict its configuration. It’s important for students to remember that the order follows a specific path, usually depicted through an "aufbau diagram" which lists orbitals in the order they are filled. This methodology is key to understanding chemical properties and behaviors across the periodic table.