Inert Pair Effect in 60 Seconds!
❓ Question Why is Al³⁺ stable , Tl⁺ highly stable , and Tl³⁺ a strong oxidising agent? Let’s break the entire concept in one crisp explanation. ✍️ Short Explanation The inert pair effect refers to the reluctance of the ns² electrons (the "inert pair") to participate in bonding for heavy p-block elements . This means as we go down a group, especially in groups 13–16 , the lower oxidation state becomes more stable , and the higher oxidation state becomes less stable . Let's apply this to Group 13: Al → Ga → In → Tl . 🔹 1. Why Al³⁺ is Stable Aluminium is in the 3rd period . Relativistic effects are very small. The 3s² electrons are not inert — they easily participate in bonding. So Al prefers oxidation state +3 (Al³⁺). 👉 Al³⁺ is very stable, does not get reduced easily. 🔹 2. Why Tl⁺ is More Stable than Tl³⁺ Thallium (Tl) is in the 6th period . The 6s² electrons are held tightly due to relativistic contraction. They behave like ...