Which is the stronger oxidizing agent, Cr²⁺ or Cu²⁺? Explain.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the concept of an oxidizing agent. An oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction and is reduced in the process. The stronger the oxidizing agent, the more readily it gains electrons.

Step 2: Look up the standard reduction potentials (E°) for the half-reactions of Cr^{2+} and Cu^{2+}. The standard reduction potential indicates the tendency of a species to gain electrons and be reduced.

Step 3: Write the half-reactions for the reduction of Cr^{2+} and Cu^{2+}. For example, Cr^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow Cr and Cu^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow Cu.

Step 4: Compare the standard reduction potentials of the two half-reactions. The species with the higher (more positive) standard reduction potential is the stronger oxidizing agent because it has a greater tendency to gain electrons.

Step 5: Conclude which ion, Cr^{2+} or Cu^{2+}, is the stronger oxidizing agent based on their standard reduction potentials.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Oxidizing Agents

An oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction, causing another substance to be oxidized. The strength of an oxidizing agent is determined by its ability to accept electrons, which is often reflected in its standard reduction potential. A higher reduction potential indicates a stronger oxidizing agent.

Standard Reduction Potentials

Standard reduction potentials are measured values that indicate the tendency of a species to be reduced, expressed in volts. These values are determined under standard conditions and can be found in tables. By comparing the standard reduction potentials of Cr2+ and Cu2+, one can determine which ion is the stronger oxidizing agent.

Electrochemical Series

The electrochemical series is a list of standard reduction potentials for various half-reactions, arranged from strongest to weakest oxidizing agents. This series helps predict the direction of redox reactions and the relative strength of oxidizing and reducing agents. By consulting this series, one can easily compare Cr2+ and Cu2+ to identify the stronger oxidizing agent.

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Which is the stronger oxidizing agent, Cr2+ or Cu2+? Explain.

Key Concepts

Oxidizing Agents

Standard Reduction Potentials

Electrochemical Series

Which is the stronger oxidizing agent, Cr²⁺ or Cu²⁺? Explain.