It is because of inability of ns2 electrons of the valence shell to participate in bonding that
- Sn2+ is oxidising while Pb4+ is reducing
- Sn2+ and Pb2+ are both oxidising and reducing
- Sn4+ is reducing while Pb4+ is oxidising
- Sn2+ is reducing while Pb4+ is oxidising
Answer
(4) Sn2+ is reducing while Pb4+ is oxidising
Solution
The inability of ns2 electrons to take part in bonding (inert pair effect) increases down group 14.
Sn: +4 state is more stable than +2 ⇒ Sn2+ readily changes to Sn4+ ⇒ Sn2+ is reducing.
Pb: +2 state is more stable than +4 ⇒ Pb4+ readily changes to Pb2+ ⇒ Pb4+ is oxidising.
As per NCERT, tin in +2 state is a reducing agent and lead compounds in +4 state are strong oxidising agents.
Answer: (4)