Question

A gas $X$ at $1atm$ is bubbled through a solution containing a mixture of $1M$ $Y^{-}$ and $1M$ $Z^{-}$ ions at ${25}^{\circ }C$. If the 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

The order of reduction potential is given as :

$Z>Y>X$

Higher reduction potential means self-reduction of the species, but it oxidizes other species. This means a species with higher reduction potential acts as an oxidizing agent for species with lower reduction potential.

Lower reduction potential means self-oxidation of the species, but it reduces other species. This means a species with lower reduction potential acts as a reducing agent for species with higher reduction potential.

Thus, $Y$ will oxidize $X$ as it has a higher reduction potential than $X$, but not $Z$ because $Y$ has a lower reduction potential than $Z$.

Hence, option (A) is correct.