Question

Which of the following is the strongest oxidizing agent?

• A. \( \text{Cl}_2 \)
• B. \( \text{I}_2 \)
• C. \( \text{Br}_2 \)
• D. \( \text{F}_2 \)

Hint:

The halogen with the highest electronegativity (fluorine) is the strongest oxidizing agent.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the concept of an oxidizing agent An oxidizing agent is a substance that accepts electrons in a redox reaction. The strength of an oxidizing agent is determined by its tendency to gain electrons. Step 2: Analyze the halogens - \( \text{F}_2 \) (fluorine) has the highest electronegativity and is the strongest oxidizing agent because it has the greatest tendency to accept electrons. - \( \text{Cl}_2 \), \( \text{Br}_2 \), and \( \text{I}_2 \) are also oxidizing agents, but they are weaker than \( \text{F}_2 \) due to lower electronegativity values. Answer: Therefore, \( \text{F}_2 \) is the strongest oxidizing agent. So, the correct answer is option (4).