Chapter 20, Problem 8STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: From the list of metals, the strongest reducing agent and the most difficult set of metals to be oxidized must be chosen.

Concept Introduction:

An electron-donating element that tends to give one or more electrons is known as a reducing agent. The strongest or the weakest reducing agents can be determined by looking at the Oxidation or reduction potential which is defined as the value that measures the tendency of an element to be reduced or oxidized.

Answer to Problem 8STP

From the given list of metal group 3 metals are the strongest reducing agent.

From the given list of metal group 4 metals are difficult to oxidize.

Explanation of Solution

Metals numbered as group 3 are the strongest reducing agents. The element which is having the highest negative volt is the strongest reducing agent.

Therefore, among metals like magnesium, lead, iron, etc., from the list group 3 i.e., potassium, calcium, and sodium have higher negative volt.

The metals grouped as 4 are the metals which are difficult to oxidize as these metals have partially filled electrons in their ground state, therefore, resist losing electrons easily.