Question

Which is the most stable oxidation state of actinoids?

(a) +2

(b) +3

(c) +4

(d) +5

The question was posed to me by my school principal while I was bunking the class.

I would like to ask this question from D and F-Block Elements in chapter D and F-Block Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Correct option is (b) +3

To explain I would say: Actinoids show variable oxidation states because of the smaller energy gap between 5f, 6d and 7s orbitals. Though 3+ is the most stable oxidation state, other oxidation states are possible because of the good shielding of f-electrons.