Question:medium

Write two similarities and two differences between lanthanoids and actinoids.

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Lanthanoids = 4f filling. Actinoids = 5f filling. Transition from 4f to 5f leads to easier ionization and higher radioactivity in actinoids.
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Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lanthanoids (\(4f\) series) and Actinoids (\(5f\) series) are the f-block elements located in the inner transition series.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Similarities:
1. Both series show a predominant oxidation state of \(+3\).
2. Both series exhibit a steady decrease in ionic radii across the series, known as Lanthanoid contraction and Actinoid contraction respectively.
Differences:
1. Except for Promethium (\(Pm\)), lanthanoids are non-radioactive, whereas all actinoids are radioactive.
2. Lanthanoids have a lesser tendency to form complexes compared to actinoids because \(5f\) orbitals are more extended in space and participate more in bonding.
Step 4: Final Answer: The primary similarities are OS and contraction; primary differences are radioactivity and complex formation.
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