Discuss the variation of oxidation states in the group - 14 elements.

Explanation

The common oxidation states exhibited by group - 14 elements are +4 and +2.
`to` Carbon exhibits negative oxidation states.
`to` Heavier elements exhibits +2 oxidation state.
`to`The tendency to show +2 oxidation state increases in the order Ge `lt` Sn `lt` pb.
`to` pb exhibits +2 oxidation state as stable state because of inert pair effect.