Nickel atom can lose two electrons to form Ni 2+ ion. The atomic number of nickel is 28. From which orbital will nickel lose two electrons.

Question

Philoid · Accepted Answer

One Ni atom has 28 electrons and its electronic configuration is : [Ar] 4s² 3d⁸

It becomes Ni²⁺ by losing 2 electrons, hence configuration of Ni2+ is : [Ar] 4s⁰ 3d⁸

So, nickel loses two electrons from the 4s orbital not the 3d orbital.

• This is due to the two contrary facts: as 4s has a lower energy level than 3d orbital (Aufbau principle) then it should have been the 3d electrons that should get lost.

• But, as the 4s orbital is further from the nucleus and is shielded by the 3d electrons it is easier to lost 4s electrons than 3d electrons. Moreover, it leaves the 3 d electrons as valence shell electrons which is more stable than losing them.

Nickel atom can lose two electrons to form Ni2+ ion. The atomic number of nickel is 28. From which orbital will nickel lose two electrons.

Nickel atom can lose two electrons to form Ni²⁺ ion. The atomic number of nickel is 28. From which orbital will nickel lose two electrons.