Question

Amongst the elements of group 14 the oxidising power of the tetravelent species increases in the order
A. GeltPbltSn
B. GeltSnltPb
C. PbltGeltSn
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Correct Answer - B
Ge lt Sn lt Pb
Oxidation involves decreases in oxidation state of the oxidising agent. Since `Pb^(2+)` is stabler than `Pb^(4+)` while `Ge^(4+)` is stabler than `Ge^(2+)` due to inert pair effect, the oxidising power of the tetravelent species increases in the order Ge lt Sn lt Pb