The group 14 elements A and B have the first ionisation enthalpy values of 708 and 715 kJ mol-1 respectively. The above values are lowest among their group members. The nature of their ions A2+ and B4+ respectively is
- both reducing
- oxidising and reducing
- both oxidising
- reducing and oxidising
Answer
(4) reducing and oxidising
Solution
As per NCERT, iH1 ( kJ mol-1): C 1086, Si 786, Ge 761, Sn 708, Pb 715
A = Sn, B = Pb
Due to the inert pair effect, the stability of the +2 state increases down the group.
Sn: +4 is more stable than +2 Sn2+ Sn4+ + 2e- Sn2+ is a reducing agent.
Pb: +2 is more stable than +4 Pb4+ + 2e- Pb2+ Pb4+ is an oxidising agent.
Answer: (4)