Question

The standard electrode potentials of three metals A, B and C are, respectively, + 0.34 V, - 1.18 V and - 0.25 V. The correct order of reducing power of these metals is :

• A. B $\gt $ C $\gt $ A
• B. A $\gt $ B $\gt $ C
• C. C $\gt $ B $\gt $ A
• D. A $\gt $ C $\gt $ B

Hint:

Lower (more negative) Reduction Potential = Higher Reducing Power.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Concept
Reducing power refers to the ability of an element to reduce another substance, which means it undergoes oxidation itself.

Step 2: Meaning
Standard reduction potential ($E^{\circ}$) indicates the tendency of a species to be reduced. A lower (more negative) $E^{\circ}$ value means a higher tendency to be oxidized.

Step 3: Analysis
We compare the given $E^{\circ}$ values: Metal A is +0.34 V, Metal B is -1.18 V, and Metal C is -0.25 V. The lowest value is -1.18 V (B), followed by -0.25 V (C), and the highest is +0.34 V (A).

Step 4: Conclusion
The more negative the reduction potential, the stronger the reducing agent. Therefore, the reducing power follows the order B $\gt $ C $\gt $ A.

Final Answer: (A)