Question

Discuss the general trends in the following properties of the 3d transition elements (21-29):

Oxidation states

Answer 1

1. They commonly exhibit multiple oxidation states due to involvement of both (n − 1)d and ns electrons in bonding.
2. The +2 oxidation state is most stable for many elements due to the loss of two 4s electrons.
3. Higher oxidation states (+3, +4, +5, etc.) involve the participation of d electrons.
4. The stability of oxidation states depends on electronic configuration; half-filled or fully filled d-subshells are more stable.
5. The highest oxidation states are shown in compounds with electronegative elements like oxygen and fluorine.
6. Oxidation states increase with atomic number within a group.
7. Some elements exhibit low oxidation states, such as +1 or 0, in certain compounds.