Question

In view of the signs of ${\Delta }_r{G}^o$ for the following reactions,

$Pb{O}_2+Pb\to 2PbO,{\Delta }_r{G}^o<0$

$Sn{O}_2+Sn\to 2SnO,{\Delta }_r{G}^o>0$

Which oxidation states are more characteristic for lead and tin?

• A. For lead $+4$, for tin $+2$
• B. For lead $+2$, for tin $+2$
• C. For lead $+4$, for tin $+4$
• D. For lead $+2$, for tin $+4$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

For lead $+4$, for tin $+4$

As we move down the group, lower oxidation sttate become stable due to inert pair effect so

$Pb{O}_2+Pb\to 2PbO,{\Delta }_r{G}^o<0$
+4 +2

$Sn{O}_2+Sn\to 2SnO,{\Delta }_r{G}^o>0$
+4 +2

For lead $+2$, for tin $+4$.