Question:

To what extent do the electronic configurations decide the stability of oxidation states in the first series of the transition elements? Illustrate your answer with examples.

Updated On: Sep 29, 2023
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Solution and Explanation

The elements in the first-half of the transition series exhibit many oxidation states with Mn exhibiting maximum number of oxidation states (+2 to +7). The stability of +2 oxidation state increases with the increase in atomic number. This happens as more electrons are getting filled in the d-orbital. However, Sc does not show +2 oxidation state. Its electronic configuration is 4s2 3d1 . It loses all the three electrons to form Sc3+ .+3 oxidation state of Sc is very stable as by losing all three electrons, it attains stable noble gas configuration, [Ar]. Ti(+4) and V(+5) are very stable for the same reason. For Mn, +2 oxidation state is very stable as after losing two electrons, its d-orbital is exactly half-filled, [Ar] 3d5 .

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Concepts Used:

Properties of D Block Elements

  • Multiple oxidation states- The oxidation states of d block elements show very few energy gaps; therefore, they exhibit many oxidation states. Also, the energy difference between s and d orbital is very less. Therefore both the electrons are involved in ionic and covalent bond formation, which ultimately leads to multiple oxidation states.
  • Formation of complex compounds- Ligands show a binding behavior and can form so many stable complexes with the help of transition metals. This property is mainly due to:
    • Availability of vacant d orbitals.
    • Comparatively small sizes of metals.
  • Hardness- Transition elements are tough and have high densities because of the presence of unpaired electrons.
  • Melting and boiling points- Melting and boiling points of transition are very high because of the presence of unpaired electrons and partially filled d orbitals. They form strong bonds and have high melting and boiling points.
  • Atomic radii- The atomic and ionic radius of the transition elements decreases as we move from Group 3 to group 6. However, it remains the same between group 7 and group 10, and from group 11 to group 12 increases.
  • Ionization enthalpy- The ionization enthalpies of the transition elements are generally on the greater side as compared to the S block elements