Question detail
As you move down Group 7, how does the oxidising ability of halogens change?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 7(17), the halogens
Question
- A. It increases
- B. It decreases
- C. It remains the same
- D. It fluctuates
Answer
It decreases
Explanation
The oxidising ability of halogens decreases down the group due to increasing atomic size and decreasing electronegativity, making it harder for larger atoms to attract electrons.
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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