Question

Which of the following is the strongest oxidising agent

• A. $Br{O}_3^{-}/B{r}^{2+},E^0=+1.50$
• B. $F{e}^{3+}/F{e}^{2+},E^0=+0.76$
• C. $Mn{O}_4^{-}/M{n}^{2+},E^0=+1.52$
• D. $C{r}_2{O}_7^{2-}/C{r}^{3+},E^0=+1.33$

Answer 1

The correct option is C

$Mn{O}_4^{-}/M{n}^{2+},E^0=+1.52$

Reduction potential is a measure of the tendency of a chemical species to acquire electrons and thereby be reduced. Measured in volts (V), or millivolts (mV) - each species has its own intrinsic reduction potential. The more positive the potential, the greater the species' affinity for electrons and tendency to be reduced. Hence - among the given options - $Mn{O}_4^{-}$ is strongest oxidising agent. In other words - $Mn{O}_4^{-}$ has the best affinity to get reduced and thus has the greatest ability to oxidise.