Consider the following statements regarding the elements of Group 12 ( Zn , Cd , and Hg ): I. While Zn and Cd are solids, Hg is a liquid at room temperature due to its high ionization enthalpy and weak metallic bonding. II. Zn and Cd have negative standard reduction potentials ( E^ _ M ²⁺/ M ), whereas Hg has a positive standard reduction potential. III. Hg can form dimeric ions in the +1 oxidation state, but Zn and

Step-by-step solution

Statement I is correct: Mercury is a liquid at room temperature because its 6s electrons are tightly bound, leading to a high ionization enthalpy and very weak metallic bonding. Statement II is correct: The standard reduction potentials ( E^ _ M ²⁺/ M ) for Zn and Cd are negative ( -0.76 V and -0.40 V respectively), making them reactive metals, whereas Hg has a positive value ( +0.85 V ), making it less reactive. Statement III is correct: Mercury can exhibit a +1 oxidation state by forming the dimeric ion Hg ₂²⁺ ,