Which of the following ions acts as the strongest oxidizing agent due to the inert pair effect? — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

As we move down a p-block group, the inert pair effect makes the lower oxidation state more stable. For Lead (Pb), the +2 state is more stable than +4. Thus, $Pb^{4+}$ readily gains electrons to reduce to $Pb^{2+}$, acting as a strong oxidizing agent.