To determine the strongest reducing agent from the given data, we need to look at the standard reduction potentials (E°) provided. The more negative the E° value, the stronger the reducing agent. Here are the relevant potentials:
- E° Cr₂O₄ /Cr³⁺ = 1.33 V
- E° MnO₄ ⁻/Mn²⁺ = 1.51 V
- E° Cl₂ /Cl⁻ = 1.36 V
- E° Cr³⁺ /Cr = -0.74 V
Now, let's analyze the options:
- Cl⁻: This is the reduced form of Cl₂, which has a positive E° value (1.36 V), indicating it is not a strong reducing agent.
- Mn²⁺: This is the reduced form of MnO₄⁻, with a positive E° value (1.51 V), also indicating it is not a strong reducing agent.
- Cr: This is the reduced form of Cr³⁺, with a very negative E° value (-0.74 V), suggesting it is a strong reducing agent.
- Cr³⁺: This is the oxidized form of Cr, and it has a positive E° value (1.33 V), indicating it is not a reducing agent.
Based on this analysis, the strongest reducing agent among the options is Cr, as it has the most negative standard reduction potential.