MHT CET · Chemistry · Thermodynamics (C)

Identify the element having highest enthalpy of atomization from following.

A \(\operatorname{Cu}(Z=29)\)
B \(\mathrm{Fe}(Z=26)\)
C \(Zn(Z=30)\)
D \(\mathrm{Sc}(Z=21)\)

Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(B) \(\mathrm{Fe}(Z=26)\)

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

Fe \((Z=26)\)
The atomisation enthalpy of iron (Fe) is the highest. It is determined by the strength of the metallic connection, which is in turn determined by the amount of unpaired electrons. The metallic link will be stronger as the number of unpaired electrons increases. In the electronic configuration of \(\mathrm{Fe}(Z=26)\), four unpaired electrons are present.
\(\mathrm{Fe}=1 \mathrm{~s}^{2}, 2 \mathrm{~s}^{2}, 2 \mathrm{p}^{6}, 3 \mathrm{~s}^{2}, 3 \mathrm{p}^{6}, 3 \mathrm{~d}^{6}, 4 \mathrm{~s}^{2}\)

Number of unpaired electrons \(=4\)

Apply the relevant identity from the chapter and substitute the values established in the previous step, keeping the original constraint in view.

Use the simplified expression to isolate the unknown, then plug the result back into the question setup to confirm the working is internally consistent.

Cross-check against a boundary or limiting case. Both the dimensional balance and the qualitative behaviour at the extreme should agree with the candidate answer.

Combine the steps above to identify the correct option. The remaining choices each fail at least one of the consistency, dimensional, or boundary checks.

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