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Why Zn does not exist in variable oxidation states? |
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Answer» The oxidation state of an element depends on its electronic configuration. Zn: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s2 When Zn loses two electrons from 4s-orbital thus acquiring +2 oxidation state, it gets a very stable electronic configuration wherein all the electrons in d-orbital are paired. Zn2+: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 Since d-orbitals are completely filled with paired electrons, it has a very stable electronic configuration. Therefore, Zn shows only one oxidation state of +2. |
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