78.5k views
1 vote
Chemistry, please help! Thanks.

Based on E⁰ values, which of the following metals is the most easily reduced?
a. mercury
b. sodium
c. zinc
d. gold

1 Answer

4 votes

Answer:

d. The gold(III) ion is most easily reduced.

Step-by-step explanation:

The standard reduction potentials are

Au³⁺ + 3e⁻ ⟶ Au; 1.50 V

Hg²⁺ + 2e⁻ ⟶ Hg; 0.85 V

Zn²⁺ + 2e⁻ ⟶ Zn; -0.76 V

Na⁺ + e⁻ ⟶ Na; -2.71 V

A more positive voltage means that there is a stronger driving force for the reaction.

Thus, Au³⁺ is the best acceptor of electrons.

Reduction Is Gain of electrons and, Au³⁺ is gaining electrons, so

Au³⁺ is most easily reduced.

User Charlie
by
7.7k points