Question

Of the following outer electronic configurations of atoms, the highest oxidation state is achieved by which one of them?

• A. $(n-1)d^{8}, ns^{2}$
• B. $(n-1)d^{5}, ns^{1}$
• C. $(n-1)d^{3}, ns^{2}$
• D. $(n-1)d^{5}, ns^{2}$

Hint:

Of the following outer electronic configurations of atoms, the highest oxidation state is achieved by which one of them?

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Concept
The maximum oxidation state of a d-block element is generally equal to the sum of the $ns$ and $(n-1)d$ electrons.
Step 2: Calculation
(A) $8 + 2 = 10$ (but $d^8$ typically doesn't reach +10)
(B) $5 + 1 = 6$
(C) $3 + 2 = 5$
(D) $5 + 2 = 7$
Step 3: Analysis
Configuration (D) represents Manganese (Mn), which shows a maximum oxidation state of +7 (as in $KMnO_4$).
Step 4: Conclusion
$(n-1)d^5, ns^2$ achieves the highest common oxidation state among the options.
Final Answer: (D)