Question

The reducing character of Al, Ga, In, Tl increases in which of the following order?
A.Al $<$ Tl $<$ Ga $>$ In
B.Ga $<$ Al $<$ Tl $<$ In
C.Tl $<$ In $<$ Ga $<$ Al
D.Al $<$ Ga $<$ In $<$ Tl

Answer 1

Hint: To solve this question, we must discuss two basic characteristics, viz. basicity and electrode potential, and also discuss the trends of these characters in the periodic table.

Complete Step-by-Step Answer:
Before we move forward with the solution of the given question, let us first understand some important basic concepts.
We can define the reducing character of an atom or a molecule to be the tendency of the given atom or molecule to reduce other chemical species. To put it in simpler terms, in order to reduce other chemical species, the given atom or molecule must itself undergo oxidation. This character is also known as the basic character of a given chemical species. Hence, the reducing character of a given element is dependent on the basic character of the element.

We also need to know about the electrode potential of an element. Electrode potential can be explained as the measure of reducing power of an element. Both the electrode potential and the basicity of elements decreases as we move down in a group. Hence, the reducing characteristic also decreases as we move down the group. Hence, the reducing character of AL, Ga, In, Tl increases in the order:
Tl$ <$ In$ <$ Ga$ < $Al

Hence, Option C is the correct option

Note: Oxidation can be understood as a condition where an atom or a molecule donates electrons to attain a relatively more stable electronic configuration. On the other hand, reduction can be understood as the condition where an atom or molecule accepts electrons to attain a more stable electronic configuration.