Question

Identify the highest oxidation state exhibited by plutonium (\(Z=94\)).

• A. \(+6\)
• B. \(+4\)
• C. \(+5\)
• D. \(+7\)

Hint:

Early actinoids use their 5f, 6d and 7s electrons and reach high oxidation states, with plutonium showing up to +7.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Formula-first idea
Actinoids show a wider range of oxidation states than lanthanoids because 5f electrons are less tightly held.

Step 2: Compare the options
Of +4, +5, +6 and +7, plutonium reaches up to +7, so the highest is +7.

Step 3: Final Check
The +7 state is seen in plutonium and neptunium, the two early actinoids with the highest states. This confirms option (D).

Final Answer:
The answer is +7. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) }+7} \]