Question

Write the electronic configuration of lanthanoids and give suitable explanations for them.

Answer 1

General electronic configuration of lanthanoids is \[\ce{[Xe] 4f^{1 - 14} 5d^{0 - 1} 6s^2}\]

Explanation:

1. Lanthanoids involve the gradual filling of 4f orbitals after xenon.
2. They include 14 elements from Ce (Z = 58) to Lu (Z = 71).
3. The 5d orbital may or may not contain one electron.
4. The most common oxidation state is +3.
5. Poor shielding by 4f electrons causes lanthanoid contraction.