Ge (II) compounds are powerful reducing agents whereas Pb(IV) compound are strong oxidants. It can be due to

Options

A. Pb is more electropositive than Ge
B. ionization potential of lead is lesst than that of Ge
C. ionic radii of `Pb^(2+)` and `Pb^(4+)` are larger than those of `Ge^(2+)` and `Ge^(4+)`
D. more pronounced inert pair effect in lead than in Ge.

Answer

D

Explanation

Ge(IV) is more stable than Ge(II). Therefore, Ge(II) compounds are powerful reducing agent. Pb(IV) is less stable than PB(II). Therefore, Pb(IV) compounds are powerful oxidising agents. This is due to inert pair effect, due to which the +2 oxidation state becomes more stable as we move down the group.