Which of the following oxidation states are the most characteristics for lead and tin, respectively?

Options

A. `+2, +2`
B. `+4, +2`
C. `+2, +4`
D. `+4, +4`

Answer

C

Explanation

Due to inert pair effect, `ns^(2)` electron pair of `Pb` does not participate in bonding. Thus, `+2` is the most characteristic oxidation state for `Pb`. However, for `Sn`, the inert pair effect is not so strong Thus, `+4` is the most characteristic oxidation state for `Sn`.