Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Chemistry of transition elements

Chemistry of transition elements — practice question

(a(i))[1]

Complete the electronic configuration for the iron atom. $\text{Fe }\; 1s^2\,2s^2\,2p^6\,\ldots$

(a(ii))[1]

In some complexes, the $\text{Fe}^{3+}$ ion has only one unpaired electron in its d orbitals. Using $\uparrow$ and $\downarrow$ to stand for electrons of opposite spins, complete the diagram below to show the d orbital electronic configuration of this $\text{Fe}^{3+}$ ion.

(b)[2]

A solution containing a mixture of $\text{Sn}^{2+}\text{(aq)}$ and $\text{Sn}^{4+}\text{(aq)}$ is mixed with a solution containing a mixture of $\text{Fe}^{2+}\text{(aq)}$ and $\text{Fe}^{3+}\text{(aq)}$. Use $E^{\circ}$ data from the Data Booklet to predict the reaction that may occur when the two solutions are combined, and write an equation for the reaction.

(c(i))[4]

Hexaaquairon(III) ions are pale violet. They form a colourless complex with fluoride ions, $\text{F}^-$, equilibrium 1, and a deep-red complex with thiocyanate ions, $\text{SCN}^-$, equilibrium 2. $[\text{Fe(H}_2\text{O)}_6]^{3+} + \text{F}^- \rightleftharpoons [\text{Fe(H}_2\text{O)}_5\text{F}]^{2+} + \text{H}_2\text{O}$ equilibrium 1 $K_{\text{stab}} = 2.0 \times 10^5\,\text{mol}^{-1}\,\text{dm}^3$ $[\text{Fe(H}_2\text{O)}_6]^{3+} + \text{SCN}^- \rightleftharpoons [\text{Fe(H}_2\text{O)}_5\text{SCN}]^{2+} + \text{H}_2\text{O}$ equilibrium 2 $K_{\text{stab}} = 1.0 \times 10^3\,\text{mol}^{-1}\,\text{dm}^3$ Predict and explain the order of colour changes you would see in each of these experiments. • A few drops of KSCN(aq) are introduced into $5\,\text{cm}^3$ of $\text{Fe}^{3+}$(aq), then a few drops of KF(aq) are added. • A few drops of KF(aq) are introduced into $5\,\text{cm}^3$ of $\text{Fe}^{3+}$(aq), then a few drops of KSCN(aq) are added.

(c(ii))[1]

What sort of reaction occurs during the experiments in (i)?

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Fe electronic configuration: $\ldots 3s^23p^63d^64s^2$

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI