Question

Why $B{i}^{3+}$ more stable than $B{i}^{+5}$?

• A. Due to inert pair effect
• B. Due to inert gas electronic configuration
• C. Due to half filled configuration
• D. Due to lanthanide Contraction

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Due to inert pair effect

Option $\left(A\right)$ is correct.

$B{i}^{3+}$is more stable than $B{i}^{5+}$ due to inert pair effect. Ongoing down the group, inert pair effect increases due to more penetration of $s$- orbital in nucleus due to which element tends to show lower oxidation state more stable than higher oxidation state. Thus, bismuth will show a strong tendency to change into +3 state from +5 state.