99 Percentile Qs Bank for JEE MainChemistryp Block Elements (Group 13 & 14)
G e (II) compounds are powerful reducing agents whereas P b (IV) compounds are strong oxidants. It is due to -
Options
- AP b is more electropositive than G e
- BIonization potential of Lead is less than that of G e
- CIonic radii of P b 2 + and P b 4 + are larger than those of G e 2 + and G e 4 +
- DMore pronounced inert pair effect in lead than in G e
Correct answer
D. More pronounced inert pair effect in lead than in G e
Step-by-step solution
Due to inert pair effect, the + 2 oxidation state stability increases down the   14 th group, and + 4 oxidation state stability decreases down the group. Ge   ( II ) tends to acquire Ge   ( IV ) state by loss of electrons. Hence, it acts as a reducing agent. Pb   ( IV ) tends to acquire Pb   ( II ) oxidation state by gain of electrons. Hence, it acts as an oxidising agent.