Which one of the elements with the following outer orbital configurations may exhibit the largest number of ox

Question

Which one of the elements with the following outer orbital configurations may exhibit the largest number of oxidation states?

Accepted Answer

The variety of oxidation states in transition elements arises from the participation of both the $(n-1)d$ and $ns$ electrons in bonding. The element with the maximum number of unpaired electrons in the d-subshell plus electrons in the s-subshell will exhibit the largest number of oxidation states.

1.  **Analyze Configurations:**
    *   $3d^3 4s^2$ (Vanadium): $3+2=5$ valence electrons. Max O.S. is +5.
    *   $3d^5 4s^1$ (Chromium): $5+1=6$ valence electrons. Max O.S. is +6.
    *   $3d^5 4s^2$ (Manganese): $5+2=7$ valence electrons. Max O.S. is +7.
    *   $3d^2 4s^2$ (Titanium): $2+2=4$ valence electrons. Max O.S. is +4.

2.  **Conclusion:** Manganese ($3d^5 4s^2$) can utilize all 7 valence electrons, showing oxidation states from +2 to +7, which is the maximum number in the 3d series.

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