Question

Which of the following substances is the most powerful oxidizing agent?

Br2

CI2

Cr3+

Sn2+

Answer 1

I think it’s Cr3+ because best oxidizing agent means best reduction one (gains electrons). Since Cr3+ has 3 less electrons, I assume that one would gain electrons the easiest.

Answer 2

CI2

Step-by-step explanation:

An oxidising agent is one which oxidises other elements and gets reduced in the process. In other words, it has a greater tendency to accept electrons.

The oxidising ability of an element can be estimated based on its standard reduction potential (E⁰). More positive the reduction potential of an element, greater will be its ability to accept electrons are behave as a powerful oxidising agent.

In the given examples, the E⁰ for Cl2 is the most positive at 1.36 V i.e.

Cl2 + 2e- → 2Cl- E⁰ = +1.36 V

Hence, Cl2 will be most powerful oxidising agent