The number of ions from the following that are expected to behave as oxidising agent is : Sn4+, Sn2+, Pb2+, Tl3+, Pb4+, Tl+
- 3
- 4
- 2
- 1
Answer
(3) 2
Solution
Inert pair effect: down groups 13 and 14 the lower oxidation state (ns2 pair unused) becomes more stable.
Sn: Sn4+ is the stable state ⇒ Sn2+ is a reducing agent, Sn4+ is not oxidising
Pb: Pb2+ is the stable state ⇒ Pb4+ Pb2+ ⇒ Pb4+ is oxidising ✓
Tl: Tl+ is the stable state ⇒ Tl3+ Tl+ ⇒ Tl3+ is oxidising ✓
∵ Pb2+ and Tl+ are already in their stable lower states, they are not oxidising
∴ 2 ions ( Pb4+, Tl3+)
Answer: (3)