Question:

The common oxidation states of elements of 15th group elements are:

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Group 15 shows −3, +3, +5 due to 5 valence electrons and inert pair effect in heavier elements.
Updated On: Jul 18, 2026
  • −3, +3, +5
  • −3, +2, +5
  • −1, +3, +5
  • −2, +3, +5
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Identify group 15 elements.
Group 15 includes N, P, As, Sb, Bi. They have 5 valence electrons.

Step 2: Possible oxidation states.
They can gain 3 electrons to complete octet → −3 state. They can also show +3 and +5 oxidation states due to availability of p and s electrons for bonding.

Step 3: Trend explanation.
Down the group, inert pair effect increases, so +3 becomes more stable than +5 for heavier elements like Bi.

Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options.
−2 and +2 are not stable/common oxidation states for group 15 elements.

Step 5: Final conclusion.
Thus common oxidation states are: \[ -3, +3, +5 \]

Step 6: Final answer.
\[ \boxed{-3, +3, +5} \]
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