Chemistry 10th Edition

Published by Brooks/Cole Publishing Co.
ISBN 10: 1133610668
ISBN 13: 978-1-13361-066-3

Chapter 27 - Metals II: Properties and Reactions - Exercises - Properties and Chemistry of the Metals - Page 1054: 32

Answer

Standard reduction potentials of the alkaline earth metals are, in general, very negative, indicating that alkaline earth metals are easily oxidized and hence are good reducing agents. Progressing down Group 2A, the atoms are larger, the outer electrons are more easily lost, the metals become better reducing agents and standard reduction potentials become more negative.

Work Step by Step

Standard reduction potentials of the alkaline earth metals are, in general, very negative, indicating that alkaline earth metals are easily oxidized and hence are good reducing agents. Progressing down Group 2A, the atoms are larger, the outer electrons are more easily lost, the metals become better reducing agents and standard reduction potentials become more negative.
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