Oxygen exhibits oxidation states - 2 to + 2 while other elements of this group exhibit oxidation states + 2 , + 4 and + 6 why?

In group 16 elements the electronegativity decreases down the group with increasing atomic number. Therefore, the power to attract the electron diminishes. Thus, the tendency to show -2 oxidation state by group 16 elements decreases as the atomic number increases. Moreover, the elements other than oxygen has provisions for vacant d -orbitals in the valence shell. Apart from this, to promote the electron from 2 s - or 2 p - orbitals into 3 s - or 3 p - orbitals require large amount of energy which cannot be provided by the enthalpy of chemical reaction. Thus, elements of group 16 except oxygen can expand their octets and show higher oxidation states of +4 and +6 in their compounds. Oxygen reacts with the most electronegative element fluorine and exhibits + 1 and +2 oxidation states. Other elements of this group + 2 , + 4 , + 6 oxidation states because they are not as electronegative as oxygen.

HARD

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The number of trends, which are true with respect to the properties of hydrides of oxygen family:

1) Bond angle: $H_{2} O > H_{2} S > H_{2} Se > H_{2} Te$
2) Volatility: $H_{2} O < H_{2} S > H_{2} Se > H_{2} Te$
3) Thermal stability: $H_{2} O > H_{2} S > H_{2} Se > H_{2} Te$
4) Acidic strength: $H_{2} O > H_{2} S > H_{2} Se > H_{2} Te$

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Important Questions on Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18

EASY

Chemistry>Inorganic Chemistry>Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18>Chemical Properties of Group 16 Elements

Which one of the following is used to remove most of plutonium from spent nuclear fuel?

EASY

Chemistry>Inorganic Chemistry>Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18>Chemical Properties of Group 16 Elements

In which one of the following arrangements the given sequence is not strictly according to the properties indicated against it?

MEDIUM

Chemistry>Inorganic Chemistry>Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18>Chemical Properties of Group 16 Elements

Identify the incorrect statements among the following?
(i)

{SF}_{6}

does not react with water
(ii)

{SF}_{6}

{sp}^{3} d

hybridized
(iii)

S_{2} O_{3}^{2 -}

is a linear ion
(iv) There is no

π

-bonding in

{SO}_{4}^{2 -}

ion

EASY

Chemistry>Inorganic Chemistry>Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18>Chemical Properties of Group 16 Elements

The shape of

{SCl}_{4}

is best described as a

MEDIUM

Chemistry>Inorganic Chemistry>Elements of Groups 16, 17 and 18>Chemical Properties of Group 16 Elements

Which of the following statements are correct for hydrides of

16^{th}

group elements?
I) Boiling point is highest for water and lowest for hydrogen sulphide
II) Bond dissociation enthalpy is highest for water and lowest for hydrogen sulphide
III Reducing property increases from