Question

Although fluorine is more electronegative than oxygen, but the ability of oxygen to stabilize higher oxidation states exceeds that of fluorine. Why?

Answer 1

Since fluorine (a monovalent atom) is smaller in size and has a higher electronegativity as compared to oxygen, it cannot form multiple bonds with metals. Hence, fluorine does not stabilize the metals in their very high oxidation states.

In case of oxygen, it is divalent and has the ability to form multiple bonds with metals which results in the formation of stable compounds in which metals can exist in their highest oxidation states.