Question

Which of the following is the STRONGEST reducing agent?

A. Ba(s)

B. Li+ (aq)

C. Na(s)

D. Cr^2+ (aq)

E. Li(s)

Answer 1

Reducing agent = The species that favors reduction, i.e. it will oxidize in order to reduce another species

Therefore, the strongest is simple the one species that will favour reduction

a)

Ba will donate e- readily, so this is a good option

b)

Li+ will not donate e- since it is alkali metal, therefore not a good option

c)

Na(s), it will donate e- readily,

d)

Cr+2 --> Cr+3 + e- can happen, but it is not strong enough as Na(s) --> Na+ + e-

e)

Li(s) similar as Na(s), but this is smaller, therefore, donates e- easier

the best option is therefore:

Li(s) , since Li(s) will donate e- , so it will reduce all other material easier, it will get oxidized faster as well