Question

The most stable oxidation state of lanthanides is

• A. 2
• B. 4
• C. 0
• D. 3

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

3

Answer 2

The general electronic configuration of lanthanides is
$[X e](n-2) f^{1-14}(n-1) d^{1} n s^{2}$
$\because$ After the loss of both of the 65 electrons and also the solitary $d$ electrons, the lanthanoids gain stable configurations.
$\therefore+I I I(+3)$ oxidation state is most common among lanthanides.