Question

Among the following outermost configuration of metals which shows the highest oxidation state?

• A. $3d^{3}4s^2$
• B. $3d^{5}4s^1$
• C. $3d^{5}4s^2$
• D. $3d^{4}4s^2$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

$3d^{5}4s^2$

The outer electronic configuration $3d^{5}4s^2$ will show highest oxidation state of $+7$ as in $KMn{O}_4$.

The highest oxidation states of different outer electronic configurations are shown below.

(A) $3d^{3}4s^2\to +5$ Oxidation possible.

(B) $3d^{5}4s^1\to +6$ Oxidation possible.

(C) $3d^{5}4s^2\to +7$ Oxidation possible.

(D) $3d^{4}4s^2\to +6$ Oxidation possible.

Hence, the correct option is $\text{C}$