Question

Account for the following :

Reducing character decreases from SO2 to TeO₂.

Answer 1

As the size of group 16 elements increases down the group, the element–oxygen bond strength decreases from SO₂ to TeO₂. Therefore, the bond dissociation enthalpy decreases. Hence, due to increase in the tendency to release oxygen, the oxidising tendency increases and, consequently, the reducing character decreases.