Question

Given below are two statements : Statement I : CeO$_2$ can be used for oxidation of aldehydes and ketones. Statement II : Aqueous solution of EuSO$_4$ is a strong reducing agent. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer :

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are true
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are false
• C. Statement I is true but Statement II is false
• D. Statement I is false but Statement II is true

Hint:

For Lanthanides: $Ce^{4+}$ is a strong oxidant (wants to reach $+3$), while $Eu^{2+}$ is a strong reductant (wants to reach $+3$). $+3$ is the "safe haven" oxidation state for the f-block.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine the correctness of the given statements, let's analyze each separately:

• Statement I: CeO₂ can be used for oxidation of aldehydes and ketones.
  Cerium(IV) oxide, CeO₂, is known as a versatile oxidizing agent. It is commonly used in organic chemistry for the oxidation of various functional groups, including aldehydes and ketones. It facilitates the conversion of aldehydes to carboxylic acids and the conversion of ketones into when further reactions are appropriate. Thus, Statement I is true.
• Statement II: Aqueous solution of EuSO₄ is a strong reducing agent.
  Europium(II) sulfate, EuSO₄, when in an aqueous solution, can act as a reducing agent. This is because the Europium ion (Eu²⁺) can readily be oxidized to Eu³⁺, releasing electrons in the process and thus functioning as a reducing agent. Particularly, among lanthanides, Eu²⁺ is notably stable and acts as a reducing agent. Therefore, Statement II is true.

Both the statements given in the question are accurate based on the above explanations. In conclusion, the correct answer is that both Statement I and Statement II are true.