Oxidation/Reduction Potentials

[moose45]

If you look at the Periodic table, which element should have the highest reduction potential? Is it the element F?

Which element should have the highest oxidation potential? Is it the element Fr?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Isoprop]

If you look at the Periodic table, which element should have the highest reduction potential? Is it the element F?

Which element should have the highest oxidation potential? Is it the element Fr?

Reduction potential measures the spontaneity of an element to gain electrons. The higher the reduction potential, the higher the element wants to gain electrons. Therefore, the periodic trend should mirror electron affinity.

 

[moose45]

Reduction potential measures the spontaneity of an element to gain electrons. The higher the reduction potential, the higher the element wants to gain electrons. Therefore, the periodic trend should mirror electron affinity.

So, did I have the elements chosen for reduction and oxidation correct?

 

[Rabolisk]

It's actually Li for the highest oxidation potential or lowest reduction potential, but your basic idea is right. F2 and other nonmetal gases near the right of the periodic table are oxidizing agents, while metals (especially Group I and II) are reducing agents.