Two theoretical models predict different energy orderings for the outer subshells of…
CHEMISTRY · Subjective · AP · Chemistry · Atomic Structure and Properties · Atomic Structure and Properties
Problem
Two theoretical models predict different energy orderings for the outer subshells of a transition metal. Model A places the 4s subshell below the 3d subshell, whereas Model B places the 3d subshell below the 4s subshell. A PES experiment on iron shows a peak for 3d electrons at 73 MJ mol−1 and a peak for 4s electrons at 52 MJ mol−1. Which model does the data support? Justify your choice in one sentence.