Which one of the following elements shows maximum number of different oxidation states in its compounds?
Eu
La
Ge
Am
Correct answer: Am
Solution
Americium (Am) belongs to the actinide series and exhibits a wide range of oxidation states, from +2 to +7, due to the involvement of 5f, 6d, and 7s orbitals in bonding. The other elements have more limited oxidation states.