Trends in Increasing Reducing Ability

[Emilie Hoffman 1E]

To compare this between different elements, do we need to compare the same increase in oxidation number? For example, if we were comparing Cu and Cr, do we have to use Cu2+ ---> Cu in comparison with Cr2+ ---> Cr, or can we compare between different oxidation state changes?

[Deap Bhandal L1 S1J]

I believe you would use the equation where it the ion goes to neutral. So like In3+ to In instead of In3+ to In2+.

[Emilie Hoffman 1E]

So is there any importance in comparing equal oxidation states going to a neutral atom? For example, would Cu2+ ---> Cu and Cr3+ ---> Cr be just as valid a comparison as Cu2+ ---> Cu and Cr2+ ---> Cr?

[Christine Wastila 1H]

I think you would want to compare using two equations where the amount of electrons transferred is the same.

[Shreya Ramineni 2L]

The more negative in potential, the more likely the substance is to be oxidized/work as a reducing agent. Therefore it has more of a reducing power.

[mayasinha1B]

The more negative the E standard for a given half reaction is, the less likely that reaction is to take place in the given reduction state. If you think about it, a more negative E standard yields a more positive delta G with a lowered likelihood of spontaneity. So the higher value will be reduced and the lower value will be oxidized.