The electronic structure `(n-1) d^(1-10) ns^(0-2)` is characteristic of

Options

A. Lanthanides
B. Actinides
C. Rare gases
D. Transition elements

Answer

To solve the question regarding the electronic structure `(n-1)d^(1-10) ns^(0-2)`, we need to analyze what this configuration represents and match it with the provided options. Let's break it down step by step.

### Step 1: Understand the Electronic Configuration
The given electronic structure is `(n-1)d^(1-10) ns^(0-2)`. This means:
- The `(n-1)d` subshell can hold between 1 to 10 electrons.
- The `ns` subshell can hold between 0 to 2 electrons.

### Step 2: Identify the Types of Elements
1. **Lanthanides and Actinides**:
- Lanthanides have the general electronic configuration of `[Xe] 6s^2 4f^{1-14}`.
- Actinides have the general electronic configuration of `[Rn] 7s^2 5f^{1-14}`.
- Both of these series involve filling the f subshell, which is not represented in our configuration.

2. **Noble Gases**:
- Noble gases have a complete outer shell configuration, typically `ns^2 np^6`.
- They do not have electrons in the d subshell, so this option does not match.

3. **Transition Elements**:
- Transition metals are characterized by their `(n-1)d` subshell being filled with electrons, typically having configurations like `[noble gas] ns^2 (n-1)d^{1-10}`.
- This matches the given configuration since it includes electrons in the d subshell.

### Step 3: Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- The configuration `(n-1)d^(1-10) ns^(0-2)` is characteristic of **transition elements**.

### Final Answer
The correct answer is **transition elements**.

---