Question

To what extent do the electronic configuration decide the stability of oxidation states in the first series of transition elements? Illustrate you answer with examples

Answer 1

The d orbitals whether they are half - filled or completely filled will impart stability to a specific ion. The electronic configuration of an element [ Mn ] will be :

[Ar] 3d5 4s2, Mn2+ ; [Ar] 3d5, Mn3+; [Ar] 3d4, Mn4+; [Ar] 3d3  

+2 oxidation state of an element will be most stable due to the reason of corresponding electronic configuration of Mn2+ is highly symmetrical .