The UV-visible absorption bands in the spectra of lanthanoid ions are 'X', probably because of the excitation of electrons involving 'Y'. The 'X' and 'Y', respectively, are :
- Broad and f orbitals
- Narrow and f orbitals
- Broad and d and f orbitals
- Narrow and d and f orbitals
Answer
(2) Narrow and f orbitals
Solution
The colour of lanthanoid ions arises from f–f transitions.
The 4f orbitals are deeply buried (shielded by 5s and 5p electrons), so they are hardly affected by the surroundings; the absorption bands are therefore very narrow (line-like).
X = narrow, Y = f orbitals.
Answer: (2)