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What is the electron configuration of a neutral iron (Fe) atom, and how does this configuration change when it forms an Fe2+ ion?

Answer 1

Charles Barnes

The electron configuration of a neutral iron (Fe) atom is [Ar] 3d6 4s2. When iron forms an Fe2+ ion, it loses two electrons, typically from the 4s orbital. Therefore, the electron configuration of Fe2+ is [Ar] 3d6.