The following reactions represent the reduction of IO3– ion into I– ion in acidic and basic medium. Predict in which medium IO3– ion will act as a better oxidizing agent?
IO3– + 6H+ + 6e– I– + 3H2O

Question

The following reactions represent the reduction of IO3– ion into I– ion in acidic and basic medium. Predict in which medium IO3– ion will act as a better oxidizing agent?
IO3– + 6H+ + 6e– $\rightarrow$ I– + 3H2O; E° = +0.907 V
IO3– + 3H2O + 6e– $\rightarrow$ I– + 6OH–; E° = +0.260 V

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: A. A higher (more positive) standard reduction potential indicates a stronger tendency to undergo reduction, which makes the species a better oxidizing agent. Since +0.907 V (acidic) > +0.260 V (basic), IO3– is a better oxidizing agent in an acidic medium.

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