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Chapter 10: Problem 92

Which metal is most easily oxidized: \(\mathrm{Pt}, \mathrm{Hg}, \mathrm{Fe}\), \(\mathrm{Mg}, \mathrm{Zn} ?\)

Short Answer

Expert verified
Based on the standard reduction potentials, magnesium (Mg) is the metal most easily oxidized, with a reduction potential of \(-2.37\,\mathrm{V}\). This indicates a higher tendency to lose electrons and be oxidized.

Step by step solution

01

Write down the standard reduction potentials for each metal.

We can refer to a table of standard reduction potentials to find the values for each metal: - \(Pt: E^0_{Pt^{2+}/Pt} = +1.2\,\mathrm{V} \) - \(Hg: E^0_{Hg^{2+}/Hg} = +0.85\,\mathrm{V} \) - \(Fe: E^0_{Fe^{2+}/Fe} = -0.44\,\mathrm{V} \) - \(Mg: E^0_{Mg^{2+}/Mg} = -2.37\,\mathrm{V} \) - \(Zn: E^0_{Zn^{2+}/Zn} = -0.76\,\mathrm{V} \)
02

Identify the metal with the lowest standard reduction potential.

Among the standard reduction potentials listed above, notice that magnesium has the lowest potential at \(-2.37\,\mathrm{V} \).
03

Conclusion

Based on the standard reduction potentials, magnesium (Mg) is the metal most easily oxidized. It has the lowest reduction potential, which indicates a higher tendency to lose electrons and be oxidized.

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