Question

Most common oxidation states shown by cerium are:

• A. $+2,+4$
• B. $+3,+4$
• C. $+3,+5$
• D. $+2,+3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $+3,+4$

Cerium ($Z=58$) has observed electronic configuration $\left[Xe\right]4f^{2}5d^{0}6s^2$.

In the +4 oxidation state, it attains stable electronic configuration $\left[Xe\right]4f^0$.

Hence, option $B$ is correct.