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Question

  1. Why do transition elements show variable oxidation states?
  2. Name the element showing the maximum number of oxidation states among the first series of transition metals from Sc(Z=21) to Zn(Z=30).
  3. Name the element which shows only +3 oxidation state.

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Solution

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 (n-1)d and nsorbitals.
  • 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. Mn(Z=25), has an electronic configuration [Ar]3d54s2.
  • It has the highest number of unpaired electrons in the d-subshell.
  • Since both d and s orbitals are used for bond formation, total 5+2=7electrons are available for bond formation.
  • Hence, Mn shows the highest oxidation state of +7 among the first series of transition metals.

Element which shows only +3 oxidation state

  • Scandium (Sc)exhibits +3 oxidation state in these series.
  • The electronic configuration of Scandium (Sc)is [Ar]3d¹4s².
  • Since both d and s orbitals are used for bond formation, total 1+2=3electrons are available for bond formation.
  • Hence (Sc)exhibits +3 oxidation state.

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