Question

Which element is a strong reducing agent in +2 oxidation state and why? 

Hint:

A strong reducing agent has a more negative electrode potential, as it easily loses electrons and undergoes oxidation.

Answer 1

The element that is a strong reducing agent in the +2 oxidation state is Zinc (Zn). Zinc has a relatively low \( E^\circ_{\text{Zn}^{2+}/\text{Zn}} \) value of \(-0.76 \, \text{V}\), which means it readily loses electrons to form \( Zn^{2+} \). The more negative the \( E^\circ \) value, the stronger the reducing agent, because it indicates a greater tendency to donate electrons. In the +2 oxidation state, zinc acts as a strong reducing agent, easily donating electrons to reduce other species. \vspace{10pt}