Q.40:- Considering the elements F, Cl, O and N, the correct order of their chemical reactivity in terms of oxidizing property is:
(a) F > Cl > O > N
(b) F > O > Cl > N
(c) Cl > F > O > N
(d) O > F > N > Cl
Within a period, the oxidising character increases from left to right. Therefore, among F, O and N, oxidising power decreases in the order: F > O > N. However, within a group, oxidising power decreases from top to bottom. Thus, F is a stronger oxidising agent than Cl. Further because O is more electronegative than Cl, therefore, O is a stronger oxidising agent than Cl. Thus, overall decreasing order of oxidising power is: F > O > Cl > N, i.e., option (b) is correct.