Question

Which the following is the correct order of oxidizing power of perhalates?

(a) BrO4^– < IO4^– < ClO4^–

(b) IO4^– > BrO4^– > ClO4^–

(c) IO4^– < BrO4^– < ClO4^–

(d) BrO4^– > IO4^– > ClO4^–

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Answer 1

The correct choice is (d) BrO4^– > IO4^– > ClO4^–

Explanation: Perhalates are strong oxidizing agents, their oxidizing power decreases in the order: BrO4^– > IO4^– > ClO4^–. This can be explained on the basis of their electrode potentials. Although among perhalates BrO4^– is the strongest oxidizing agent, yet it is weaker oxidizing agent than F2.