Question

The standard reduction potentials at $25^{\circ }C$ of $Li+/Li,B{a}^{2+}/Ba,N{a}^{+}/Na$and $M{g}^{2+}/Mg$ are$-3.05,-2.73,-2.71$ and $-2.36$ volt respectively. Which one of the following is the strongest oxidising agent?

• A. $N{a}^{+}$
• B. $L{i}^{+}$
• C. $B{a}^{2+}$
• D. $M{g}^{2+}$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Strongest oxidizing agent is the one which easily gets reduced. Metal with high reduction potential will be easily reduced and thus act as strong oxidising agent. Thus, $M{g}^{2+}$ is the strongest oxidising agent among the given choices.