Write the main differences in lanthanides and actinides.

Lanthanides

Actinides

1. Lanthanides show +3 oxidation state only except in few cases where it is +2 or +4. Oxidation states exhibited by lanthanides is never more than +4.

1.    Actinides show higher oxidation states such as +4, +5, +6, +7 also in addition to +3.

2.    Paramagnetic properties of lanthanides can be easily explained.

2.    Paramagnetic properties are difficult to interpret.

3.    Lanthanides do not form complexes.

3.    They have a greater tendency to complex formation. Even -complexes are formed by actinides.

4.    Lanthanide compounds are less basic.

4.    Compounds of these are sufficiently basic.

5.    Lanthanides do not form oxo ions.

5.    These in higher oxidation states form oxo ions.

6.    Except promethium, these are ion-radio-active.

6.    Such as UO₂²⁺, NbO⁺, PuO,²⁺etc.