Maximum oxidation state generally equals group valence electrons across the main-group elements.
Practise Atomic Structure & Periodicity All Atomic Structure & Periodicity topics
The maximum oxidation state of a main-group element generally equals its group valence electron count, so sulfur in group 16 can reach +6. The minimum oxidation state is the valence count minus eight, which gives negative values for groups 15 to 17. Transition metals show a range of oxidation states, often from +2 up to the group number. These trends follow from the electron configurations and are used to write formulas and balance redox reactions. Oxidation states are assigned formally by counting electrons.
Key ideas: For main groups, maximum oxidation state equals group number (1, 2, 13 to 17 use group minus 10) and negative states equal group minus 18 for nonmetals (Cl -1, S -2, N -3). Transition metals show a rise to a maximum at the middle of the series (Mn +7) then falls (Mn in KMnO4, Cu +1 and +2, Zn +2). Heavy p-block prefers lower states.
Common mistakes and connections: Students apply the maximum state to every compound or forget that fluorine is always -1 and O is -2 except in peroxides (-1). Maximum states are strong oxidizers in the same period (MnO4-, Cr2O7 2-). Oxidation state trends connect to the inert pair effect and to naming of compounds.
The maximum oxidation state in period 3 equals the group valence electron count, rising from +1 for sodium to +7 for chlorine. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
Sulfur forms compounds with oxidation states -2, +4 and +6, as in H2S, SO2 and SO3.
Maximum oxidation state generally equals group valence electrons across the main-group elements.
Periodic Trends in Oxidation State is a intermediate topic in Atomic Structure & Periodicity. It builds on the vocabulary of beginner topics in this area.
Study these earlier topics in Atomic Structure & Periodicity first: Diagonal Relationship, Inert Pair Effect, Lanthanide Contraction.
The next topics in Atomic Structure & Periodicity are Periodic Trends in Oxides and Hydrogen Position.
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Periodic Trends in Oxidation State, and the Atomic Structure & Periodicity quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Periodic Trends in Oxidation State is topic 97 of 115 in Atomic Structure & Periodicity.