Question:

Which of the following transition elements exhibits the highest oxidation state?

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Remember that for 3d transition metals, the maximum oxidation state increases from $\text{Sc}$ (+3) to $\text{Mn}$ (+7), after which it decreases because d-electrons start pairing up and become less available for bonding.
Updated On: May 31, 2026
  • Mn
  • Fe
  • Cr
  • Ti
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation



Step 1: Concept

Transition metals can exhibit multiple oxidation states due to the presence of d-orbitals. The highest possible oxidation state for a transition metal is determined by the number of electrons in its outermost shell and the availability of unpaired d-electrons.


Step 2: Meaning

Oxidation state refers to the hypothetical charge an atom would have if all bonds to atoms of different elements were 100% ionic. For transition metals, this varies widely due to their ability to lose different numbers of electrons from both the ns and (n-1)d subshells.


Step 3: Analysis

To determine which element exhibits the highest oxidation state among Mn, Fe, Cr, and Ti, we look at their valence configurations: Titanium ($\text{Ti}$) has an electronic configuration of $[\text{Ar}] 4s^2 3d^2$. The maximum possible oxidation state is +4.
Iron ($\text{Fe}$) has an electronic configuration of $[\text{Ar}] 4s^2 3d^6$. Although it has 8 valence electrons, it rarely exceeds +3 or +6 in unstable ferrates due to paired d-electrons.
Chromium ($\text{Cr}$) has an electronic configuration of $[\text{Ar}] 4s^1 3d^5$. It can lose all 6 valence electrons to exhibit a maximum oxidation state of +6.
Manganese ($\text{Mn}$) has an electronic configuration of $[\text{Ar}] 4s^2 3d^5$. It has 7 valence electrons available for bonding.


Step 4: Conclusion

By losing all 7 of its valence electrons ($4s$ and $3d$), manganese can achieve a maximum oxidation state of +7 (e.g., in $\text{KMnO}_4$ or $\text{MnO}_4^-$). This is the highest among the given options.
Final Answer: (A)
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