Question

Explain about the oxidation state of Lanthanoids.

Answer 1

. The common oxidation state of lanthanoids is +3. In addition to that some of the lanthanoids also show either +2 or +4 oxidation states. 

2. Gd³⁺ and Lu³⁺ ions have extra stability, it is due to half filled and completely filled f-orbitals. 

3. Cerium and terbium attain 4f⁷ and 4f¹⁴ configurations respectively in the +4 oxidation states. 

4. Eu²⁺ and Yb³⁺ ions have exactly half filled and completely filled f orbitals. 

5. Lu shows only +3 oxidation state. 

6. Ce, Pr, Nd, Tb and Dy exhibit +3 and +4 oxidation states.

7. Nd, Sm, Eu, Tm, Yb exhibit +2 oxidation states also.