Which of the following electronic configuration would be associated with the highest magnetic moment — d and f Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: In mercury(I) compounds, the mercurous ion exists as a diatomic dimer, [Hg2]^2+, which contains a covalent metal-metal bond (Hg-Hg) formed by the overlap of 6s orbitals. Step 2: Because all electrons are paired in this dimeric cation, it is diamagnetic and colorless. Step 3: Stating that the mercurous ion exists as a monatomic Hg^+ is incorrect, making option (a) the correct choice.