Question

How is the variability in oxidation states of transition metals different from that of non-transition metals? Illustrate with examples.

Answer 1

In transition elements the oxidation states vary by unity (clue to incomplete filling of d-orbitals) e.g., Mn exhibits +2, +3, +4, +5, +6 and +7 all differing by 1.

In non-transition element, this variation is selective, always differing by 2. e.g., S exhibits 2, 4, 6 oxidation states. N exhibits 3, 5 etc.