Q22 P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Is it more difficult to oxidize Cr or Mo? Explain.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Cr is easier to oxidize than Mo

Step 1: Oxidization

Oxidation, a chemical reaction in which electrons are lost.

Step 2: Explanation for Cr is easier to oxidize than Mo

When look at the trends of the main-group metals, see that IE decreases down the group and the reactivity of a metal increases. These trends do not apply on the transition elements; down the group of transition elements IE increases and the atomic size increases slightly, so the elements located higher in the group show more reactivity. Thus, Cr is easier to oxidize than Mo. IE (ionization energy) - amount of energy required to remove electrons from an atom or molecule