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Why transition metals show variable oxidation states

Why transition metals show variable oxidation states

A variable oxidation state means a transition metal can form stable ions with different charges. This happens because the 4s4\text{s}4s and 3d3\text{d}3d sub-levels are close in energy, so different numbers of electrons can be removed.

Variable oxidation states (A-level only) Lesson

  1. A Level
  2. /Chemistry
  3. /Variable oxidation states (A-level only)

Step-by-step lessons on AQA A Level Chemistry Variable oxidation states (A-level only). Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Build confidence with atomic structure, bonding and moles calculations early on, since these underpin the more demanding organic mechanisms, equilibrium and practical-analysis topics that dominate Year 2.

Lessons