Question

Compare the elements of group 15 with those of group 16 in relation to the following property:

Oxidation states

Answer 1

1. Group 15 elements have valence configuration ns² np³ and can exhibit oxidation states of −3, +3, and +5 by gaining three or losing five electrons.
2. Nitrogen and phosphorus commonly show −3 oxidation state by gaining electrons, while heavier elements show positive states by losing electrons.
3. Group 16 elements have the valence configuration ns² np⁴ and mainly exhibit −2 oxidation state by gaining or sharing two electrons.
4. Oxygen commonly shows −2, but in compounds like OF₂, it shows +2, and in peroxides, −1.
5. The tendency of group 16 elements to show −2 oxidation state decreases down the group, while group 15 elements show variable positive oxidation states owing to the involvement of d-orbitals in heavier elements.