AIIMS 2019 Chemistry Ionization Enthalpy and Reducing Agents Assertion Reason Question
Assertion: Li has high ionization enthalpy, while Li is the strongest reducing agent in aqueous solution. Reason: Li has high oxidation potential.
If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
If assertion is true but reason is false.
If both assertion and reason are false.
Correct Answer
Detailed Explanation
Option A is correct because lithium (Li) indeed has a high ionization enthalpy due to its small atomic size and high effective nuclear charge, which makes it energetically unfavorable to lose an electron. However, in aqueous solution, Li is a strong reducing agent because it readily donates its electron to form Li⁺, demonstrating a high oxidation potential. Other options are incorrect because option B suggests that the reason does not explain the assertion, while options C and D incorrectly assert the truth values of the statements. Understanding the relationship between ionization enthalpy and reducing ability is crucial in electrochemistry, particularly for alkali metals like Li.
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