Magnetic Moment of Transition Metal | JEE Main PYQ | Structure of Atom
Q. The magnetic moment of a transition metal compound has been calculated to be 3.87 B.M. The metal ion is:
(A) Ti2+
(B) V2+
(C) Cr2+
(D) Mn2+

Correct Answer: V2+

Explanation

Magnetic moment (spin only) is given by:

μ = √[ n(n + 2) ] B.M.

Given μ = 3.87 B.M.

Trying n = 3:

μ = √[3(3 + 2)] = √15 ≈ 3.87 B.M.

So number of unpaired electrons = 3

Now check options:

Ti2+ → d² → 2 unpaired ❌ V2+ → d³ → 3 unpaired ✅ Cr2+ → d⁴ → 4 unpaired ❌ Mn2+ → d⁵ → 5 unpaired ❌

Hence, correct metal ion is V2+.

Updated for JEE Main 2026: This PYQ is important for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and other competitive exams. Practice more questions from this chapter.

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