Consider the half-cell reduction reaction Mn2+ + 2e- Mn, E = -1.18 V Mn2+ Mn3+ + e-, E = -1.51 V The E for the reaction 3Mn2+ Mn + 2Mn3+, and possibility of the forward reaction are respectively
- -4.18 V and yes
- +0.33 V and yes
- +2.69 V and no
- -2.69 V and no
Answer
(4) -2.69 V and no
Solution
Reduction: Mn2+ + 2e- Mn; E red = -1.18 V
Oxidation: 2Mn2+ 2Mn3+ + 2e-; E ox = -1.51 V (E° does not change on multiplying by 2)
Adding: 3Mn2+ Mn + 2Mn3+
E cell = E red + E ox
= -1.18 + (-1.51)
= -2.69 V
∵ E cell is negative ⇒ G = -nFE cell is positive
∴ The forward reaction is not spontaneous ⇒ −2.69 V and no.
Answer: (4)