According to the electrochemical series, which of the following statements is incorrect?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Fluorine ion is a strong oxidizing agent.
OPTION 1 -Fluorine has the highest standard electrode potential.
This statement is correct.
In the electrochemical series, the reduction potential of the half reaction
F₂ + 2e⁻ → 2F⁻
is +2.87 V, which is the highest standard electrode potential. This shows fluorine has the strongest tendency to gain electrons.
OPTION 2 - Fluorine gas has a strong tendency to get reduced.
This statement is correct.
Because its standard reduction potential is very high, F₂ easily gains electrons and gets reduced to F⁻ ions.
Option 3 - Fluorine gas is a strong oxidizing agent.
This statement is correct.
A substance that gets reduced easily acts as an oxidizing agent. Since F₂ readily accepts electrons, it is the strongest oxidizing agent.
Option 4 - Fluorine ion is a strong oxidizing agent.
This statement is incorrect.
F⁻ ion is already reduced and very stable, so it cannot accept electrons further. Therefore it does not act as an oxidizing agent.