Why do some elements have more than one Oxidation state?

Answer 1

Yes first of all, u know that a atom can have maximum of 2 valence electron or 8electrons right?? so if two atoms which has 1 v. electron bond, its oxidation can be +1 or -1. Also the same thing applies to the 8 valence electron, if there is two '4 v. electroned' atom, it can be +4 or -4..

the oxidation state/number can also change depending on the compound that the element is in.....

for example normally oxygen is -2 however in peroxide compounds it is -1

Answer 2

The transition elements have d orbitals underneath their valence shells. These electrons can be moved from the d shell to the valence shell and can then be donated in oxidation. For a few of the transition elements valence electrons can also be moved into the d suborbital where they generally cannot be donated.

Answer 3

Some elements can have multiple oxidation states because they have valence electrons in different energy levels, allowing them to lose or gain electrons to achieve different stable configurations. This enables them to form a variety of compounds with different oxidation states depending on the reaction conditions.

Answer 4

Because in transition elements the energy difference between 's' and 'd' orbital is very small, therefore electrons from both orbitals can participate in bond formation.

Answer 5

because they have variable valency