Among Group 16 elements, which one does NOT show -2 oxidation state?
- O
- Se
- Te
- Po
Answer
(4) Po
Solution
The stability of the -2 oxidation state decreases down Group 16 as the electronegativity and non-metallic character decrease.
O, S, Se and Te form H2E / E2- compounds, but polonium (a metal, least electronegative) hardly shows the -2 oxidation state.
Answer: (4)