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UPSC Civil Services (Mains)

Chemistry optional

  • 2 papers
  • 250 marks each
  • 3 h per paper
  • 5 of 8 questions, Q1 and Q5 compulsory

Paper I covers physical and inorganic chemistry.

UPSC Civil Services (Mains), Chemistry optional · 2023 · Paper I

Q5(d). Electronic transitions in the spectra of actinide ions

Question

Explain the three main types of electronic transitions observed in the UV-visible absorption spectra of actinide ions.

Answer in brief

5f → 5f transitions give sharp, weak bands; 5f → 6d transitions give broad, intense bands; ligand-to-metal charge-transfer transitions give broad, very intense bands.

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Topic notes: lanthanides and actinides (lanthanide contraction, magnetic moments, separation), with every Civil Services, IFoS and Geo-Scientist PYQ →

Coversactinide spectraf–f transitions5f–6d transitionscharge transferLaporte ruleuranyl ion

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