The reducing power of a metal depends on various factors. Suggest the factor which makes Li metal th — s Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Reducing power in an aqueous environment is determined by the overall change in free energy, which is heavily influenced by the hydration step of the metal cation (M+ + aq -> M+aq). Step 2: Lithium has a small atomic size, which gives the Li+ ion an extremely high charge-to-size ratio. Step 3: This high charge density results in an exceptionally large hydration enthalpy, which releases enough energy to drive the oxidation of lithium spontaneously. Thus, option (c) is the correct answer.