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The number of unpaired electrons in a paramagnetic diatomic molecule of an element with atomic number 16 is:

1. 3
2. 4
3. 2
4. 1

Correct answer: 2

Solution

The atomic number 16 corresponds to sulfur. In its diatomic form (S2), molecular orbital theory shows that the unpaired electrons are in antibonding π* orbitals, resulting in 2 unpaired electrons. This makes S2 paramagnetic.

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