Question detail
Explain the trend in oxidising ability of halogens as you move down Group 7.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Group 7(17), the halogens
Question
Explain the trend in oxidising ability of halogens as you move down Group 7.
Answer
The oxidising ability of halogens decreases down Group 7. This is because as the atomic size increases, the distance between the nucleus and the outer electrons increases, making it harder for the atom to attract additional electrons.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it directly addresses the trend in oxidising ability and provides a clear reasoning based on atomic structure. The question tests the understanding of periodic trends in the halogens.
Common mistake
Oxidising Ability Confusion
Students often confuse the trend in oxidising ability of halogens with their reactivity, thinking that more reactive halogens are always stronger oxidising agents.
To clarify, remember that oxidising ability increases up the group, while reactivity increases down the group. For example, fluorine is the most reactive but not the strongest oxidising agent compared to chlorine. Focus on the definition of oxidising ability as the tendency to gain electrons.
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