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The oxidation state is related to the electron configuration. Atoms have electron orbitals (s,p,d,f) and full electron orbitals are more stable than partially filled orbitals.

An atom like Chlorine has 5 electrons in it's outer p orbital. A 6th electron completes the orbital which is why Chlorine usually has a charge of negative one.

s and p orbitals are usually pretty easy to judge. Full is more stable than partially full. Exactly half full is more stable than slightly more or less than half full.

d and f orbitals have energy levels much closer together and are harder to judge.

2007-02-03 13:29:48 · answer #1 · answered by LGuard332 2 · 0 0

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