Question

The reason for the greater range of oxidation states of actinoids is attributed to
A. actinoid contraction
B. 5f, 6d and 7s levels having comparable energies
C. 4f and 5d levels being close in energies
D. the radioactive nature of actinoids.

Answer 1

Correct Answer - B
The reason for exhibiting a greater number of variable oxidation states (+3 to +7) by the elements belonging to actinoid family is because of comparable energies of 5f, 6d and 7s orbitals. As a result the electrons present in all these orbitals are available for bonding.