An atom have d^8 configuration. The maximum number of electrons in the same spin is — Atomic Structure Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In a d-subshell, there are 5 degenerate orbitals. For a d^8 configuration, Hund's rule of maximum multiplicity dictates that we first distribute 5 electrons with parallel spin (e.g., spin +1/2) singly into the 5 orbitals. The remaining 3 electrons must be paired with opposite spin (spin -1/2). This results in 5 electrons with spin +1/2 and 3 electrons with spin -1/2. Thus, the maximum number of electrons sharing the same spin direction is 5.