Question

Which of the following forms cations with more than one oxidation number?
A. Manganese
B. Magnesium
C. Potassium
D. Sodium

Answer 1

Manganese

Answer 2

correct

Answer 3

Manganese is the only transition metal of the answer choices.

Transition metals often utilize their unpaired d-orbital electrons as well as their s-orbital electrons, which allows for more variety in oxidation states than the alkali metals and alkaline earth metals that exhibit only bonding with their s-orbital. Transition metals closer to the center of the periodic table exhibit more possible oxidation states than those at the borders of the section and Group 1A / 2A metals.