Why do transition elements show variable oxidation states?
(i) Name the element showing maximum number of oxidation states among the first series of transition metals from Sc (Z = 21) to Zn (Z = 30).
(ii) Name the element which shows only +3
oxidation state.
Transition elements show variable oxidation states because they have electrons in d-orbitals (d-orbital is the outermost orbital of transition element).
(i) Mn (manganese) shows the maximum number of oxidation states.
(ii) Scandium shows only +3 oxidation state.