In: Chemistry
Based on periodic trends, which elements would you expect to be good oxidizing agents? |
Part A oxygen
Part B bromine
Part C lithium
Part D sodium
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As we move across the peridoic table from left to right, the ability of elements to loose electrons decreases and ability to gain electrons increases with exception of few elements such as hydrogen and nobel gases. Thus, metals (such as sodium and lithium) which are placed on left side of periodic table are good reducing agents and non metal (such as bromine and oxygen) which are placed on right side of periodic table are good oxidising agents.
Part A:
Oxygen:
Oxygen is a non metal. It easily accepts electrons to undergo reduction. Thus, it is a good oxidizing agent.
Correct answer is option A. This substance should be a good oxidizing agent.
Part B:
Bromine:
Bromine is a non metal. It easily accepts electrons to undergo reduction. Thus, it is a good oxidizing agent.
Correct answer is option A. This substance should be a good oxidizing agent.
Part C:
Lithium :
Lithium is a metal. It readily donates electrons and hence it is a good reducing agent. It is not a good oxidizing agent.
Correct answer is option B. This substance should not be a good oxidizing agent.
Part D:
Sodium:
Sodium is a metal. It readily donates electrons and hence it is a good reducing agent. It is not a good oxidizing agent.
Correct answer is opton B. This substance should not be a good oxidizing agent.