8. TRANSITION AND INNER TRANSITION ELEMENTS

2. Answer the following

viii. Why nobelium is the only actinoid with +2 oxidation state?

Answer:-

Nobelium (No) is an actinide element, and it is indeed known for having the +2 oxidation state as one of its possible oxidation states. However, there are specific reasons why nobelium is unique among actinides in exhibiting this particular oxidation state:

  1. Electronic Configuration: Nobelium has the electron configuration [Rn] 5f¹⁴ 7s² 7p⁶ 7d¹ 8s². In its +2 oxidation state, nobelium loses two electrons from the 7s² orbital, leaving the 5f¹⁴ 7p⁶ 7d¹ configuration. This configuration makes it similar to the neighboring elements in the periodic table, particularly the actinides, and allows it to exhibit a +2 oxidation state.

  2. Relativistic Effects: Relativistic effects become increasingly important as you move down the periodic table, especially for heavy elements like the actinides. These effects can significantly influence the behavior of the electrons in the outermost orbitals. In the case of nobelium, relativistic effects make the 7s and 7p orbitals contract, making it easier for these electrons to be removed and forming the +2 oxidation state.

  3. Stability and Chemistry: It’s important to note that the +2 oxidation state of nobelium is relatively unstable compared to other common oxidation states of actinides, like +3 or +4. This means that while +2 is possible, it may not be the most commonly observed oxidation state in nobelium compounds. The stability of various oxidation states depends on the specific chemical conditions and the nature of the compounds formed.

In summary, nobelium is unique among the actinides in that it can exhibit the +2 oxidation state due to its electronic configuration and the influence of relativistic effects. However, this oxidation state is relatively less stable compared to other oxidation states of nobelium and may not be as commonly observed in its chemical compounds.

Chapter 8. TRANSITION AND INNER TRANSITION ELEMENTS page 191