Q44 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (22 Apr Shift 2) · Chemistry

Which of the following species acts as strongest oxidising agent?

  • A
    Li
  • B
    $\mathrm{Li}^{+}$
  • Correct answer
    C
    $F_2$
  • D
    $\mathrm{F}^{-}$

Solution

The strongest oxidizing agent is the species with the greatest tendency to gain electrons, undergoing reduction itself.

Lithium metal ($\mathrm{Li}$) readily loses electrons as a strong reducing agent, not an oxidizing one.

The lithium ion ($\mathrm{Li}^{+}$) possesses a stable electron configuration and minimal tendency for further reduction.

Fluorine gas ($\mathrm{F}_2$) exhibits the strongest electron affinity due to its extreme electronegativity, accepting electrons via $\mathrm{F}_2 + 2\mathrm{e}^{-} \rightarrow 2\mathrm{F}^{-}$ to achieve noble gas stability.

The fluoride ion ($\mathrm{F}^{-}$) is already reduced and shows negligible oxidizing capability.

Among these, $\mathrm{F}_2$ is unequivocally the strongest oxidizing agent.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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