The heavier elements of groups 13 and 14 besides the group oxidation state exhibit another oxidation state which is two units lower than the group oxidation state and the stability of this lower oxidation state increases down the group. This concept which is commonly called inert pair effect has been used to explain many physical and chemical properties of the element of these groups.
The strongest reductant among the following is

Options

A. `GeCl_(2)`
B. `SnCl_(2)`
C. `PbCl_(2)`
D. `SnCl_(4)`

Explanation

To determine the strongest reductant among the heavier elements of groups 13 and 14, we need to understand the concept of the inert pair effect and how it affects the oxidation states of these elements.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Inert Pair Effect**:
- The inert pair effect refers to the tendency of the s-electrons (the two electrons in the outermost s-orbital) to remain non-bonding or "inert" as we move down the group in the periodic table. This results in the stability of the lower oxidation state (which is two units lower than the group oxidation state) increasing down the group.

2. **Identifying Oxidation States**:
- For elements in group 14, the common oxidation states are +4 and +2. The +4 oxidation state is the group oxidation state, while the +2 oxidation state is the lower oxidation state that becomes more stable due to the inert pair effect.

3. **Analyzing Group 14 Elements**:
- The group 14 elements include Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Tin (Sn), and Lead (Pb). As we move down the group from C to Pb, the stability of the +2 oxidation state increases while the +4 oxidation state becomes less stable.

4. **Determining the Strongest Reductant**:
- A reductant is a substance that donates electrons in a chemical reaction. The stronger the reductant, the more readily it can lose electrons.
- Among the heavier elements of group 14, Germanium (Ge) is known to exhibit a stable +2 oxidation state. In the +4 oxidation state, it is more stable than in the +2 state, making it a good candidate for a strong reductant.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the inert pair effect and the stability of oxidation states, Germanium (Ge) is identified as the strongest reductant among the heavier elements of groups 13 and 14.

### Final Answer:
The strongest reductant among the following is **Germanium (Ge)**.