Q32 / 150 · MHT CET 2026 (15 April Shift 1) · Chemistry

Identify the factor responsible for the greater range of oxidation states in actinoids.

  • A
    actinoid contraction
  • B
    radioactive nature of actinoids
  • Correct answer
    C
    5f, 6d and 7s levels having comparable energies
  • D
    4f and 5d levels being close in energies

Solution

Actinoids exhibit a greater range of oxidation states compared to lanthanoids. This is because the energy difference between the $5f$, $6d$, and $7s$ orbitals is very small. As a result, electrons from all these energy levels can participate in bond formation, leading to variable and higher oxidation states.

Answer: 5f, 6d and 7s levels having comparable energies

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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