Question

In the following spontaneous reaction, the mercuric ion is:

Hg²⁺ + Cu → Hg + Cu²⁺

Question options:

	a) a stronger reducing agent than Cu2+
	b) It depends on the concentration of each species
	c) a weaker oxidizing agent than Cu2+
	d) a stronger oxidizing agent than Cu2+
	e) We can't tell without knowing the redox potentials

Based on the following reduction potential data, which is the strongest oxidizing agent?
E°_red = +1.78 V for H₂O₂(aq) + 2H⁺(aq) + 2e^- → 2H₂O(l)

E°_red = +0.800 V for Ag⁺(aq) + e^- → Ag(s)
E°_red = -0.130 V for Pb²⁺(aq) + 2e^- → Pb(s)

Question options:

	a) Pb2+(aq)
	b) Ag+(aq)
	c) H2O2(aq)

Answer 1