Question

What is the electron configuration of Ce2+?

The ground state is 6s(2)5d(1)4f(1), and so removing 2 electrons would make it 5d(1) and 4f(1), but that doesn't seem to be the right answer? I also tried 4f(2) but that didn't work either.

Answer 1

I found this on the web. The 5d and the 4f energy level are so close to the same value that the Ce atom may be [Xe]4f2 6s2 so by removing the outside 6s2 electrons you would be left with [Xe]4f2. The other thing you might try is to add a 2+ charge to whatever configuration you use. Frankly, I don't know but I would try ([Xe]4f1 5d1)^2+ first. Good luck.