MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

The reducing property of Group 16 hydrides depends on the ease with which they can release hydrogen atoms. As we move down the group from oxygen to tellurium, the atomic size of the central atom increases. This leads to an increase in the E- H bond length (E = O, S, Se, Te ) and a corresponding decrease in the bond dissociation enthalpy. Due to the lowest bond dissociation enthalpy among the given options, H _2 Te releases hydrogen most easily. Therefore, the reducing property increases in the order: H _2 O Hence, H _2 Te has the highest reducing property. Answer: H _2 Te