For the four successive transition elements (Cr, Mn, Fe and Co), the stability of +2 oxidation state will be there in which of the following order? (At. nos. Cr = 24, Mn = 25, Fe = 26, Co = 27)
- Mn > Fe > Cr > Co
- Fe > Mn > Co > Cr
- Co > Mn > Fe > Cr
- Cr > Mn > Co > Fe
Answer
(1) Mn > Fe > Cr > Co
Solution
Configurations of the M2+ ions:
Cr2+: [Ar]3d4; Mn2+: [Ar]3d5; Fe2+: [Ar]3d6; Co2+: [Ar]3d7
As per NCERT, Mn2+ has a stable half-filled d5 configuration the +2 state is most stable for Mn.
Fe2+ (d6) comes next; Cr2+ (d4) is a strong reducing agent, being easily oxidised to the more stable Cr3+ ( t2g3).
Order of stability of the +2 state: Mn > Fe > Cr > Co
Answer: (1)