Cerium (IV) has a noble gas configuration. Which of the following is correct statement about it?
- (A)It will not prefer to undergo redox reactions.
- (B)It will prefer to gain electron and act as an oxidizing agent✓ Correct
- (C)It will prefer to give away an electron and behave as reducing agent
- (D)It acts as both, oxidizing and reducing agent.
Answer: (B)
Solution
Cerium exists in two oxidation states: +3 and +4.
The reduction potentials are:
The high positive reduction potential (+1.61 V) for Ce⁴⁺/Ce³⁺ indicates that Ce⁴⁺ readily accepts an electron to form Ce³⁺, making it a strong oxidizing agent.
Ce⁴⁺ has a noble gas configuration ([Xe]), and by gaining an electron it achieves greater stability. Therefore, Ce⁴⁺ prefers to gain an electron and act as an oxidizing agent.
The answer is (B).
The reduction potentials are:
The high positive reduction potential (+1.61 V) for Ce⁴⁺/Ce³⁺ indicates that Ce⁴⁺ readily accepts an electron to form Ce³⁺, making it a strong oxidizing agent.
Ce⁴⁺ has a noble gas configuration ([Xe]), and by gaining an electron it achieves greater stability. Therefore, Ce⁴⁺ prefers to gain an electron and act as an oxidizing agent.
The answer is (B).
JEE Main · 2022 · 25 Jun 2022 · Shift 1 · Single correct option