Question

Assertion: $Pb ^{4+}$ can be reduced easily to $Pb ^{2+}$
Reason : $Pb^{2+}$ is paramagnetic

• A. Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
• B. Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
• C. Assertion is true but Reason is false
• D. Assertion is false but Reason is true

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

When ns² electrons of outermost shell do not participate in bonding, it is called inert pair effect. Since the inert pair effect increases down the group, therefore Pb²⁺ compounds are more stable than Pb⁴⁺ compounds. Pb⁴⁺ compounds thus, act as oxidizing agent.