When elements from a group exhibit more than one oxidation state,
A) the higher oxidation state is more important as one goes down a group.
B) the lower oxidation state is more important as one goes down a group.
C) both oxidation states are equally important throughout the group.
D) the oxidation state will be affected by the elements on either side of it in the period.
E) None of these choices is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As one moves down a group, the lower oxidation state becomes more stable due to the inert pair effect, which is the reluctance of s-electrons to participate in bonding.

When Elements from a Group Exhibit More Than One Oxidation