Why does the Cu2+ ion form?

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Ryan Fang 1D
Posts: 53
Joined: Sat Jul 22, 2017 3:00 am

Why does the Cu2+ ion form?

Postby Ryan Fang 1D » Sat Nov 04, 2017 3:55 pm

Cu+ has the electron configuration of [Ar]3d10. Cu2+ has the electron configuration of [Ar]3d9. Why does Cu2+ form? It doesn't seem like there is a reason for this ion.

Sean Monji 2B
Posts: 66
Joined: Fri Sep 29, 2017 7:06 am

Re: Why does the Cu2+ ion form?

Postby Sean Monji 2B » Sat Nov 04, 2017 5:10 pm

I hope this is right.
It is explained through Jahn - Teller distortion. In certain configurations, Cu(II) is more stable due to its distorted octahedral shape. Basically, the other atoms around it determine which form of copper is more stable. I think larger elements, especially metals, require more factors than just electron configuration to determine the most stable shape.


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