Question:

Which of the following half-cell reaction has the most negative standard electrode potential?

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Think of the alkali metals. Lithium is the smallest and has the highest hydration energy, which contributes to its extremely negative electrode potential in aqueous solutions.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Li\(^+\)(aq)+ e\(^-\) \(\to\) Li(s)
  • F\(_2\)(g) +2e\(^-\) \(\to\) 2F\(^-\)(aq)
  • Na\(^+\)(aq) + e\(^-\) \(\to\) Na(s)
  • I\(_2\)(aq) + 2e\(^-\) \(\to\) 2I\(^-\)(aq)
  • Cu\(^+\)(aq) + e\(^-\) \(\to\) Cu(s)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Standard electrode potential (\(E^\circ\)) measures the tendency of a chemical species to be reduced.
A most negative value means the species has the lowest tendency to be reduced and the highest tendency to be oxidized (best reducing agent).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The electrochemical series lists elements in order of their standard reduction potentials.
- Lithium (Li) is at the very top of the electrochemical series with the most negative reduction potential (approx -3.05 V). This makes it the strongest reducing agent.
- Fluorine (F\(_2\)) has the most positive reduction potential (approx +2.87 V), making it the strongest oxidizing agent.
- Sodium (Na) is also negative but less negative than Lithium.
- Iodine and Copper have positive reduction potentials.

Step 4: Final Answer:

The half-cell reaction for Lithium has the most negative standard electrode potential.
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