NEETChemistrys Block Elements
What is the primary reason for sodium having lower reducing power compared to lithium?
Options
- AHigher ionization enthalpy
- BSmaller ion size
- CLower hydration enthalpy
- DGreater electronegativity
Correct answer
A. Higher ionization enthalpy
Step-by-step solution
Sodium (Na) has lower reducing power compared to lithium (Li) primarily due to its higher ionization enthalpy. Higher ionization enthalpy means it is less likely to lose an electron and act as a reducing agent.