An element of 3d-transition series shows two oxidation states X and Y, differ by two units then

(1) Compounds in oxidation state X are ionic if X > Y

(2) Compounds in oxidation state X are ionic ifX < Y

(3) compounds in oxidation state Y are covalent if X < Y

(4) compounds in oxidation state Y are covalent if Y < X

 Which of the following statements are correct?

2 and 3

The correct answer is option (2) 2 and 3.

In the question it is given that an element of 3d- transition series shows two oxidation states x and y and they differ by two units in oxidation states. Generally the transition element with lower oxidation state is ionic in nature and the transition element with higher oxidation state is covalent in nature. Means the transition metal ion which has an oxidation state is x, is ionic in nature and the same transition metal which has a high oxidation state is y, is covalent in nature. Coming to the given options, option A, Compounds in oxidation state x are ionic if x > y. It is wrong because x is a lower oxidation state of transition metal ions. If x < y then the transition metal ion is ionic in nature. Coming to option B, Compounds in oxidation state x are ionic if x < y. It is correct because in less oxidation state transition metal ions are ionic in nature. Coming to option C, compounds in oxidation state y are covalent if x < y. It is also correct because in high oxidation state transition metal ions are covalent in nature. Coming to option D, compounds in oxidation state y are covalent if y < x. It is wrong because x is the lower oxidation state of transition metal ions. So, the correct answer is “Option 2 and 3”.