The gadolinium 3 ion (Gd3 ) has advantageous magnetic properties for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) applications, specifically a high number of unpaired electrons. In fact, both neutral Gd and Gd3 have a set of degenerate orbitals with seven unpaired electrons. a) Write the electron configuration for Gd and Gd3 using the condensed noble gas notation. Identify which orbitals lose electrons to yield the 3 cation based on the above information. Explain your reasoning (2-3 sentences). (6 points) b) Curium (Cm) is an actinide element named for Marie Curie. Cm is in the same group as Gd and also forms a 3 cation. Write the electron configuration for Cm and Cm3 . (2 points) c) While 3 is the most common oxidation state for lanthanide elements, some can form 2 ions. Identify an isoelectronic ion to Gd3 that has a 2 oxidation state and indicate which orbitals lose electrons to form that ion. (2 points)