Question

What is the consequence of ""inert pair effect"" on the oxidation states of Tl and Pb?

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

Inert pair effect is mostly shown by the 15-17th group elements. That is, the oxidation state reduces by 2 for elements below (As, Sb), which is more stable than the other oxidation states. The reason for this is the inertness of the inner s electrons due to poor shielding.

Answer 2

Due to inert pair effect, Tland Pb shows oxidation states of +1 and +2 respectively being more stable than the possible oxidation state for their respective groups.

• Inert pair effect is the non-availability of the outermost s-electrons to participate in bonding.
• The s-electrons being nearer to the nucleus are trapped and cannot be escaped easily, hence the last elements of the groups show more tendency to be in an oxidation state of two less than the normal oxidation state of the group.
• Tl shows more stable +1 oxidation state than +3.
• Pb shows more stable +2 oxidation state than +4.