Give reasons for the following:

(i) Transition metals form alloys.

(ii) Mn₂O₃ is basic, whereas Mn₂O₇ is acidic.

(iii) Eu²⁺ is a strong reducing agent.

(i)

Explanation: Alloys are solid solutions. Solids in alloys get intermixed with each other such that individually these can’t be recognised. Since the transition metals are similar in sizes therefore get easily settled in the crystal lattice of another metal, hence transition metal form alloys. Example of some alloys are- Brass, Bronze etc.

(ii)

Explanation: Mn₂O₃ is basic because the oxidation state of Mn is +3 and exist in d⁴ electronic configuration, Mn can still lose more electron to achieve +7 oxidation state of d⁰ state. Hence it is basic in nature. On the other side, Mn₂O₇ is acidic because it already exist in its highest possible oxidation state and has no more electrons left to lose. Therefore Mn₂O₇ is acidic.

(iii)

Explanation: Europium (Eu) can exist in +2, +3 and +4 oxidation states. +3 oxidation state of Eu is very stable therefore Eu get readily oxidised from Eu+2 to Eu+3 state by losing one more electron and hence it is a strong reducing agent.