Ions of Titanium

Most recent answer: 10/22/2007

Q:
What type of ions does titanium form?
- Matt
A:
Matt:

Titanium has the electron configuration of [Ar]3d2 4s2

Experiments have demonstrated that it can form a +3 and +4 oxidation state, so it can lose 3 or 4 electrons to form ions.

The +4 state is the most common and stable, because it is able to form an octet. The +3 state is less stable (more reactive) because it leaves a single d electron in the valence orbital. Ti(+3) is a good reducing agent, because it is oxidized to lose that last electron and form Ti(4+)

Jason

(published on 10/22/2007)