11.1 Discuss the pattern of variation in the oxidation states of
These elements belong to group 14, of the general electronic configuration . These elements have four valence electrons, therefore, they can exhibit commonly +4 oxidation state. On moving down the group from +2 oxidation state becomes more and more common. Carbon and silicon mostly show +4 oxidation state, its stability decreases on moving down the group. It is due to the inert pair effect. Though shows both +2 and +4 oxidation states. The stability of the lower oxidation state decreases down the group.