Question

Which of the following oxidation states is common for all lanthanides ?

• A. +2
• B. +5
• C. +3
• D. +4

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Elements of lanthanide series generally show the oxidation state of +3.
Metals of lanthanides show the oxidation state of +2 in the solutions of their complex compounds. Some of the lanthanides also exhibit oxidation state of +4 occasionally.
This unequal distribution of oxidation state of these metals is due to the high stability of empty, half-filled or fully filled f-subshells.