Variable oxidation states in transition elements
- Transition elements show variable oxidation states because their valence electrons are in two different sets of orbitals, i.e. in and orbitals.
- The energy difference between these orbitals is very less, hence both the energy levels can be used for bond formation.
- Hence, this results in transition elements having variable oxidation states.
Element in the first transition series with the maximum number of oxidation states
- Manganese, i.e. , has an electronic configuration .
- It has the highest number of unpaired electrons in the -subshell.
- Since both and orbitals are used for bond formation, total electrons are available for bond formation.
- Hence, shows the highest oxidation state of among the first series of transition metals.
Element which shows only oxidation state
- Scandium exhibits oxidation state in these series.
- The electronic configuration of Scandium is .
- Since both and orbitals are used for bond formation, total electrons are available for bond formation.
- Hence exhibits oxidation state.