Question

A gas ${}^{\prime }{X}^{\prime }$ at $1$ atm is bubbled through a solution containing a mixture of $1$M $Y^{-}$ and 1M $Z^{-}$ at ${25}^{o}C$. If the standard reduction potential of $Z>Y>X$, then:

• A. $Y$ will oxidize $X$ and not $Z$
• B. $Y$ will oxidize $Z$ and not $X$
• C. $Y$ will oxidize both $X$ and $Z$
• D. $Y$ will reduce both $X$ and $Z$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $Y$ will oxidize $X$ and not $Z$

A gas ${}^{\prime }{X}^{\prime }$ at 1 atm is bubbled through a solution containing a mixture of 1 M $Y^{-}$ and 1 M $Z^{-}$ at ${25}^{o}C$. If the standard reduction potential of $Z>Y>X$, then $Y$ will oxidize $X$ and not $Z$.

$Y$ can oxidize a gas that has a lower standard reduction potential. It cannot oxidize a gas having higher standard reduction potential.

Hence option (A) is correct.