Explain. Why fluorine exhibits an oxidation state of -1 only, while other elements of the family exhibit oxidation state of -1 +1, +3, +5 and +7.

Explanation

Due to its highest electronegativity, fluorine exhibits an oxidation statc (-1) and does not show any positive oxidation state.
It does not exhibit higher oxidation states (+ ve or-ve) due to the absence of vacant d-orbitals and its valence shell for the excitation of electrons. While other members, shows oxidation state of -1, +1, +3, +5 and +7.