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Which of the following shows maximum number of oxidation states :-
A
Cr
B
Fe
C
Mn
D
V
Detailed Solution
Transition elements show variable oxidation states because both (n–1)d and ns electrons can take part in bonding.
Mn ($3d^5\,4s^2$) has 7 such electrons and shows all oxidation states from +2 to +7 (e.g. $MnO$, $Mn_2O_3$, $MnO_2$, $MnO_4^{2-}$, $MnO_4^-$).
V shows up to +5, Cr up to +6, and Fe mainly +2, +3 (rarely +6).
So Mn shows the maximum number of oxidation states.
Mn ($3d^5\,4s^2$) has 7 such electrons and shows all oxidation states from +2 to +7 (e.g. $MnO$, $Mn_2O_3$, $MnO_2$, $MnO_4^{2-}$, $MnO_4^-$).
V shows up to +5, Cr up to +6, and Fe mainly +2, +3 (rarely +6).
So Mn shows the maximum number of oxidation states.