Question

$SnC{l}_4$ can be used as :

• A. reducing agent
• B. oxidizing agent
• C. catalyst in Friedel Craft's reaction
• D. a base

Answer 1

The correct option is B oxidizing agent

Stannic chloride $SnC{l}_4$ act as an oxidising agent because of an element to act as an oxidising agent it has to have the ability to accept electrons.

In $SnC{l}_4$, the oxidation state of Tin is +4. Tin is also capable of forming stable compounds and ions with the oxidation state of +2, due to inert pair effect that is, it is capable of gaining 2 electrons from some other source. As a result, the element/compound from which it gained electrons has been oxidised and stannic chloride itself gets reduced, this acts as an oxidising
agent.
Hence option B is correct.