For the four successive transition elements (Cr, Mn, Fe and Co), the stability of +2 oxidation state will be there in which of the following order?
(At. no. Cr = 24, Mn = 25, Fe = 26, Co = 27)
-
Fe > Mn > Co> Cr
-
Co > Mn > Fe > Cr
-
Cr > Mn > Co > Fe
-
Mn > Fe > Cr > Co
Solution
Multi-choise Question
D.
Mn > Fe > Cr > Co
This can be understood on the basis of Eo values for M2+/M.
Eo/V |
Cr |
Mn |
Fe |
Co |
M2+/M |
-0.90 |
-1.18 |
-0.44 |
-0.28 |
E
o value of Mn is more negative than expected from general trend due to the extra stability of half- filled Mn
2+ ion. Thus, the correct order should be
Mn > Cr > Fe > Co
An examination of E
o values for redox couple M
3/M
2+ shows that Cr
2+ is a strong reducing agent and

liberates H
2 from dilute acids.
2Cr
2+ (aq) + 2H
+ (aq) --> 2 Cr
3+ (aq) + H
2 (g)
Therefore, the correct order is Mn > Fe > Cr > Co.