Experiments show that chlorine is reduced by both Br-(aq) and I-(aq); bromine is reduced by I-(aq) only; iodine is not reduced by either Br-(aq) or I-(aq).
Which of the following is the strongest oxidizing agent?
A. Cl2
B. Br2
C.I2
D.Cl^- ion
E. I^- ion
To determine the strongest oxidizing agent among the options provided, we need to understand the concept of oxidation and reduction reactions.
In a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction, one species is reduced (gains electrons) while another is oxidized (loses electrons). The species that is being reduced is the oxidizing agent, while the species that is being oxidized is the reducing agent.
From the given information, we can observe the following:
1. Chlorine (Cl2) is reduced by both Br-(aq) and I-(aq).
2. Bromine (Br2) is reduced by I-(aq) only.
3. Iodine (I2) is not reduced by either Br-(aq) or I-(aq).
Based on this, we can conclude that Br-(aq) is a stronger reducing agent than I-(aq) because it can reduce both Cl2 and Br2. Additionally, I-(aq) is a weaker reducing agent as it cannot reduce either Cl2 or Br2.
Therefore, the species that is being reduced (Br2) will be the strongest oxidizing agent among the options provided.
So, the answer to the question is:
B. Br2