Question

Li has the maximum value of ionisation potential among alkali metals i.e. lithium has the minimum tendency to ionise to give $L{i}^{+}$ ion. Thus, lithium is :

• A. Strongest reducing agent
• B. Poorest reducing agent
• C. Strongest oxidising agent
• D. Poorest oxidising agent

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Strongest reducing agent

The ionisation potential value of Lithium is maximum among alkali metals
i.e. its tendency to ionise to give $L{i}^{+}$ ions should be the minimum i.e.Li should be the poorest reducing agent. But,lithium is the strongest reducing agent. This is due to the largest value of hydration energy of $L{i}^{+}$ ions.
Hence option A is correct.