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Which element of the 3d series has the lowest enthalpy of atomisation and why?
Which element of the 3d series has the lowest enthalpy of atomisation and why?
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The enthalpy of atomisation is lower for elements with stable electron configurations, such as copper's \( 3d^{10} \), as less energy is required to break the bonds.
Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
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Solution and Explanation
Copper (Cu) exhibits the lowest enthalpy of atomisation among the 3d series elements. This is attributed to its highly stable, completely filled \( 3d^{10} \) electron configuration. The inherent stability of this configuration minimizes the energy needed to disrupt metallic bonds during atomisation, thereby reducing the enthalpy of atomisation. Conversely, elements such as zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) possess less stable electron configurations, necessitating greater energy expenditure for bond breakage during atomisation.
Consequently, copper (Cu) demonstrates the lowest enthalpy of atomisation, a direct result of the stability conferred by its filled \( 3d^{10} \) electron configuration.
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