Q
QuestionChemistry

Why does chromium have a 3 + charge? Why is chromium (VI) oxide [CrO^3] not chromium (III) oxide?
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Answer

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Step 1
I'll solve this problem step by step, focusing on the electronic configuration and oxidation states of chromium.

Step 2
: Understanding Chromium's Electron Configuration

- Electron configuration is $$1s^{2} 2s^{2} 2p^{6} 3s^{2} 3p^{6} 4s^{1} 3d^{5}
- Chromium's atomic number is 24 - Chromium has a unique electron configuration due to the stability of half-filled d-orbitals

Final Answer

Chromium has a 3 + charge due to its stable half-filled d-orbital configuration, while CrO₃ represents a higher, less stable oxidation state of + 6.