Answer:
The element that is most likely to be reduced in a chemical reaction is the one that gains electrons, which is the opposite of oxidation. (Chlorine is the correct answer.)
Step-by-step explanation:
In a chemical reaction, reduction occurs when an atom or ion gains electrons. This is usually accompanied by a decrease in oxidation state.
Now, let's analyze the given elements:
1. Boron (B): Boron tends to lose electrons to form a positive ion, so it is not likely to be reduced in a chemical reaction.
2. Carbon (C): Carbon can either gain or lose electrons depending on the reaction, but it is most commonly found in compounds where it shares electrons in covalent bonds. Carbon is not always reduced in chemical reactions.
3. Chlorine (Cl): Chlorine is highly electronegative and readily gains electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. Therefore, chlorine is often reduced in chemical reactions.
4. Lithium (Li): Lithium readily loses its one valence electron to form a positive ion, so it is not likely to be reduced in a chemical reaction.
Based on this analysis, the element that is most likely to be reduced in a chemical reaction among the given options is chlorine (Cl).