Explain the trends in oxidation states and chemical reactivity of Group $16$ elements.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Group $16$ elements exhibit a variety of oxidation states.
The stability of the $(-2)$ oxidation state decreases down the group. Polonium hardly shows the $(-2)$ oxidation state.
Due to the high electronegativity of oxygen,it shows only the $(-2)$ oxidation state in its compounds,except in $OF_2$,where it shows $(+2)$.
Other elements of the group show $+2, +4, +6$ oxidation states,but $+4$ and $+6$ are more common.
Sulfur,selenium,and tellurium usually show the $+4$ oxidation state in their compounds with oxygen and the $+6$ oxidation state in their compounds with fluorine.
Stability of the $+6$ oxidation state decreases down the group,while the stability of the $+4$ oxidation state increases due to the inert pair effect.
Bonding in $+4$ and $+6$ oxidation states is primarily covalent.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Which of the following compounds has the maximum number of oxo groups $(M=O)$?

Identify the correct statement from the following.

When $SO_2$ is passed through acidified $K_2Cr_2O_7$ solution:

The correct order of $K_a$ in aqueous solution at $298 \ K$ for the hydrides of group $16$ elements is:

Which of the following is acidic?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo