Oxidizing and Reducing Power

[106046096]

Hi! In 6M, we are shown a diagram of the electrochemical series. How do you determine if an oxidizing or reducing agent is strong or weak? Thank you!

[306060519]

You look at the amount of electrons that the anode/cathode is receiving/giving.

[alexandra]

You look at the reduction potentials in the back of the book. High reduction potential means the species really "wants" electrons, so it has a lot of oxidizing power (and vice versa).

[gary_vernes]

For oxidizing agent, you can go by the electronegative, since higher electronegative would mean a stronger oxidizing agent. For a reducing agent, you would go by the oxidation potential, a more positive oxidation potential corresponds to a stronger reducing agent.