d and f BLOCK ELEMENTS

What does the E⁰ value of +1.74 V for the Ce⁴⁺/Ce³⁺ couple primarily indicate?

• Ce⁴⁺ is a strong oxidizing agent
• Ce³⁺ is a strong reducing agent
• Ce⁴⁺ is easily reduced
• Ce⁴⁺ is stable in aqueous solution

Why does the text mention that Ce⁴⁺ has a strong tendency to revert to the +3 state?

• Because Ce⁴⁺ is a strong oxidant
• Because Ce⁴⁺ is unstable
• Because Ce⁴⁺ cannot exist in solution
• Because Ce⁴⁺ has a larger ionic radius than Ce³⁺

Based on the concept of extra stability, which configuration would most likely favor the formation of a +2 oxidation state in a Lanthanoid?

• f⁷ or f¹⁴
• f⁰
• f⁵
• f¹⁰

Based on the concept of extra stability, which configuration would most likely favor the formation of a +4 oxidation state in a Lanthanoid?

• f⁰
• f⁷
• f¹⁴
• f⁵

Which statement correctly compares the shielding effect and its impact on atomic/ionic size within the Lanthanoid series?

• Less effective 4f shielding leads to a greater decrease in size (contraction) than would be expected with better shielding
• Better 4f shielding leads to a greater decrease in size
• Perfect 4f shielding eliminates size changes
• The shielding effect is irrelevant to size changes in Lanthanoids