Question

The reason for greater range of oxidation states in actinoids is attributed to:

• A. $4f$ and $5d$ levels being close in energies.
• B. the radioactive nature of actinoids.
• C. actinoid contraction.
• D. $5f,6d$ and $7s$ levels having comparable energies.

Answer 1

The correct option is D $5f,6d$ and $7s$ levels having comparable energies.

The reason for greater range of oxidation states in actinoids is attributed to 5f, 6d and 7s levels having comparable energies.

The oxidation states ranges from $+2$ to $+7$. The most common oxidation state is $+3$.

Hence, option D is correct.