Question

$Cr^{2 +}$ and $Mn^{3 +}$ both have $d^{4}$ configuration. Thus

• A. both are reducing agents.
• B. both are oxidizing agents.
• C. $Cr^{2 +}$ is an oxidizing agent while $Mn^{3 +}$ is a reducing agent.
• D. $Mn^{3 +}$ is an oxidizing agent while $Cr^{2 +}$ is a reducing agent.

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$Mn^{3 +}+e^{-} \rightarrow Mn^{2 +}$

Extra stability is gained when $Mn^{3 +}$ is reduced to $Mn^{2 +}$ and is thus an oxidizing agent.
$Cr^{2 +} \rightarrow Cr^{3 +}+e^{-}$