Question

Statement I $P{b}^{4+}$ compounds are stronger oxidising agents than $S{n}^{4+}$ compounds.
Statement II The higher oxidation states for the group 14 elements are more stable for the heavier members of the group due to 'inert pair effect'.(J2008,3M)

• A. Statement I is true; Statement II is true; Statement II is the correct explanation of Statement I.
• B. Statement I is true; Statement II is true; Statement II is not the correct explanation of Statement I.
• C. Statement I is true; Statement II is false.
• D. Statement I is false; Statement II is true.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Statement I is true; Statement II is false.

Statement I is true. Stronger oxidising agent is one which itself can easily be reduced. $P{b}^{4+}$ is unstable, due to inert pair effect, can easily be reduced to stable $P{b}^{2+}$, hence a stronger oxidising agent than $S{n}^{4+}$
Statement II is false. Due to inert pair effect, the higher oxidation states of group 14 elements becomes less stable for heavier member.