Question

Transition metal with low oxidation number will act as
A. An oxidizing agent
B. A base
C. An acid
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint: Transition metals are the chemical elements that do not have completely filled d-orbital configuration. Transition metal with low oxidation number means there is loss of electrons but the number of electrons lost are low and can accept electrons from other elements. These are known as Lewis acids.

Complete answer:
Periodic table consists of elements arranged or divided into blocks. There are four blocks namely s, p, d, and f blocks. d-block elements consist of electrons entering into d-orbital. The d-blocks elements that do not have a completely filled d-orbital can be known as transition elements. Oxidation is the process of losing electrons. Transition metals with low oxidation number means the elements can lose electrons and can be turned out as ions.
Ferrous ion \[\left( {F{e^{ + 2}}} \right)\] is an example of a transition metal with low oxidation number. It can accept electrons from other chemical elements or atoms and can be turned out as neutral atoms. The atom or chemical element that can accept electrons can be called Lewis acid. Thus, Transition metal with a low oxidation number will act as an acid.
So, option (C) is the correct answer.

Note:
According to scientist Lewis, an acid is a compound that can accept electrons and base is a compound that can donate electrons. Lewis explained the acid and base properties based on the electrons. As oxidation number is related to the electrons, Lewis theory must be considered.