Question

The most common oxidation state of lanthanides in their compounds is (1) \(+2\) (2) \(+3\) (3) \(+4\) (4) \(+1\)

Short answer

The most common oxidation state of lanthanides is +3.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The question asks for the most common oxidation state of lanthanides in their compounds. Oxidation states indicate the degree of oxidation (loss of electrons) of an atom in a chemical compound.

Knowledge of Lanthanides

Lanthanides, also known as rare earth elements, include elements with atomic numbers from 57 (Lanthanum) to 71 (Lutetium). Lanthanides typically form compounds where they lose electrons to obtain stable configurations.

Determine Common Oxidation States

While lanthanides can exhibit multiple oxidation states, the most stable and common oxidation state for these elements is generally considered during the formation of bonds in compounds.

Identify the Most Common Oxidation State

Through both theoretical understanding and experimental data, it is known that the most common oxidation state for lanthanides is +3. This is because when lanthanides lose three electrons, they achieve a more stable electronic configuration.

Select the Correct Answer

The above evaluation confirms that the most common oxidation state of lanthanides in their compounds is +3. So, the correct answer is (2) +3.

Key concepts

lanthanides

Lanthanides are a series of chemical elements with atomic numbers ranging from 57 (Lanthanum) to 71 (Lutetium). These elements are f-block elements, located in the Periodic Table's lower section.
They are also known as rare earth elements because they were rare to come by when they were first discovered. However, they are relatively abundant in the Earth's crust, but their separation and purification are challenging due to their similar chemical properties.
The lanthanides are known for their shiny and slightly reactive metals. They readily tarnish when exposed to air and often form compounds that are used in various high-tech applications like electronics, magnets, and lasers. Understanding lanthanides' chemistry requires grasping their electron configurations and behavior in chemical reactions.
Lanthanides exhibit unique magnetic and optical properties, making them crucial in many modern technologies. Their ability to act as catalysts in chemical reactions further underscores their importance in industrial applications.

oxidation states

Oxidation states, or oxidation numbers, denote the degree of oxidation for an atom in a chemical compound. This concept helps in understanding the electron transfer process during chemical reactions. The oxidation state is represented by integers, which can be positive, negative, or zero, indicating electron loss, gain, or neutrality, respectively.
In lanthanides, the oxidation state commonly observed is +3. This means that lanthanides typically lose three electrons when forming compounds. This loss happens because removing three electrons from their outer shells leads to a stable electronic configuration, driving their most stable oxidation state.
Although +3 is the most common, lanthanides can also exhibit +2 and +4 states, albeit less frequently. These various states affect the chemical properties and reactivity of lanthanide compounds in various applications.

rare earth elements

Rare earth elements include the lanthanides along with scandium and yttrium. Despite being called 'rare,' these elements are relatively abundant but are not often found in large, concentrated deposits.
These elements are critical in numerous high-tech applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties. For instance, they are used in producing strong permanent magnets, phosphors for color TV screens and LED lights, and catalysts in petroleum refining.
Lanthanides, in particular, are known for their ability to improve the efficiency and capabilities of various technologies. They are essential in renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbine magnets and electric vehicle batteries, which underscores their modern-day importance. Understanding rare earth elements, especially lanthanides, helps in appreciating their significant role in advancing current technological innovations.

chemical compounds

Chemical compounds involving lanthanides exhibit distinct characteristics due to their unique electronic configurations. Compounds typically formed by lanthanides include oxides, halides, and sulfides.
A common feature of lanthanide compounds is their ability to exhibit luminescence, making them useful in materials like phosphors. Lanthanides also form complexes with various ligands, enhancing their applications in multiple fields, including medicine and material science.
The stability and reactivity of these compounds are dictated by the oxidation state of the lanthanide involved. For instance, lanthanides in the +3 oxidation state form more stable compounds that are commonly used in various industrial processes.
Additionally, lanthanides are utilized in manufacturing glasses and ceramics, where they enhance durability and heat resistance. Each chemical compound of lanthanides plays a vital role in expanding the functionality of a broad array of materials.