Q. The lanthanide contraction is responsible for the fact that
A) Zr and Zn have the same oxidation state
B) Zr and Hf have about the same radius
C) Zr and Nb have similar oxidation state
D) Zr and Y have about the same radius
Explanation
(b)
Lanthanide contraction, cancels almost exactly the normal size increase on descending a group of transition elements, thus Nb and Ta, Zr and Hf have same covalent and ionic radii.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.