Which of the following statements are correct concerning redox properties?
(i) A metal M for which `E^(@)` for the half cell reaction `M^(n+)+"ne"^(-)hArrM` is very negative will be a good reducing agent.
(ii) The oxidizing power of the halogen decreases from chlorine to iodine.
(iii) The reducing power of hydrogen halides increases from hydrogen chloride to hydrogen iodide.

Options

A. i,ii and iii
B. i and ii
C. i only
D. ii and iii only

Answer

A

Explanation

(i) Highly negative `E^(@)` for `M^(n+)+"ne"^(-)hArrM` means high positive value for the reverse reaction `MhArrM^(n+)+"ne"^(-)`. This means M is oxidized very easily. Hence it is a good reducing agent.
(ii) Reduction potentials of halogens are in order `Cl^(2)gtBr_(2)gtI_(2)`. thus `Cl_(2)` is reduced most easily and hence is the best oxidizing agent.
(iii) the size of the halide ions is in order `Cl^(-)ltBr^(-)ltI^(-)`. Greater the size of the halide ions. more easily it can lose electrons and get oxidized. Thus `I^(-)` can be oxidized most easily an d hence have the greatest reducing power.