JEE MainChemistryd and f Block Elements
Among the following outer electronic configurations of transition metals, which one corresponds to the element that exhibits the maximum number of oxidation states?
Options
- A3 d ^5 4 s ^1
- B3 d ^5 4 s ^2
- C3 d ^6 4 s ^2
- D3 d ^3 4 s ^2
Correct answer
B. 3 d ^5 4 s ^2
Step-by-step solution
The maximum number of oxidation states in the 3 d transition series is exhibited by Manganese ( Mn ), which shows oxidation states from +2 to +7 . The outer electronic configuration of Mn is 3 d ^5 4 s ^2 , as it has 5 unpaired electrons in the d -subshell and 2 electrons in the s -subshell, all of which can participate in bonding. The other configurations belong to Cr ( 3 d ^5 4 s ^1 ), Fe ( 3 d ^6 4 s ^2 ), and V ( 3 d ^3 4 s ^2 ), which show fewer distinct oxidation states. Answer: 3 d ^5 4 s ^2