Decreasing order of reducing power of the given species as per their standard reduction potential is:

A. \(-2.36\)

B. \(+0.54\)

C. \(+1.23\)

D. \(-0.74\)

E. \(+1.81\)

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

A > D > B > C > E

The correct answer is option 2. A > D > B > C > E.

In electrochemistry, the standard reduction potential (\(E^\circ\)) is a measure of the tendency of a species to gain electrons and undergo reduction. A more negative standard reduction potential indicates a stronger reducing agent because it is more likely to donate electrons and be oxidized.

Let us analyze the given reduction potentials:

A. \(-2.36\): This has the most negative reduction potential, indicating a very strong reducing agent. It is highly likely to donate electrons.

B. \(+0.54\): This has a positive reduction potential, indicating that it is more likely to accept electrons rather than donate them. Therefore, it is less effective as a reducing agent compared to those with negative potentials.

C. \(+1.23\): Similarly, this positive reduction potential indicates that this species is less likely to donate electrons compared to those with negative potentials. It is even weaker as a reducing agent compared to B.

D. \(-0.74\): While negative, this reduction potential is less negative than A, so it is not as strong a reducing agent as A, but still stronger than B, C, and E.

E. \(+1.81\): This has the least negative reduction potential, making it the weakest reducing agent among the options given.

So, the correct order from strongest to weakest reducing agent is: A > D > B > C > E.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2: A > D > B > C > E.