It is because of inability of $n s^{2}$ electrons of the valence shell to participate in bonding tha

Question

It is because of inability of $n s^{2}$ electrons of the valence shell to participate in bonding that\

Professor PC Thomas Classes · Answer

(d) : The inertness of $s$-subshell electrons towards bond formation is known as inert pair effect. This effect increases down the group thus, for $\mathrm{Sn},+4$ oxidation state is more stable, whereas, for $\mathrm{Pb},+2$ oxidation state is more stable, i.e., $\mathrm{Sn}^{2+}$ is reducing while $\mathrm{Pb}^{4+}$ is oxidising.\