Multiple Choice
In the redox reaction: Zn(s) + Cu^{2+}(aq) → Zn^{2+}(aq) + Cu(s), which compound is oxidized?
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6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Redox Reactions
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the strongest oxidizing agent?
A
F_2 (fluorine gas)
B
MnO_4^- (permanganate ion)
C
O_2 (oxygen gas)
D
Cl_2 (chlorine gas)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons (is reduced) in a redox reaction, and the strongest oxidizing agent has the greatest tendency to be reduced.
Recall that the strength of oxidizing agents can be compared using their standard reduction potentials (E° values), which indicate how readily a species gains electrons.
Look up or recall the standard reduction potentials for the half-reactions involving each species: \(\mathrm{F_2}\), \(\mathrm{MnO_4^-}\), \(\mathrm{O_2}\), and \(\mathrm{Cl_2}\).
Compare the standard reduction potentials: the species with the highest positive E° value is the strongest oxidizing agent because it has the greatest tendency to gain electrons.
Identify that fluorine gas (\(\mathrm{F_2}\)) has the highest standard reduction potential among the given options, making it the strongest oxidizing agent.
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