The s-Block Elements

Question

Lithium has highest ionisation energy in group 1 elements, yet it is strongest reducing agent. Comment.

Answer

It is due to high hydration energy of small lithium ion which more than compensates high ionisation enthalpy. The hydration energy of Liion is very high and as a result of this reduction potential of lithium is very low(E°= –3). So lithium acts as the most powerful reducing agent in aqueous solution.

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