Question

Which of the following elements does not show disproportionation tendency?

(a) Cl (b) Br (c) F (d) I
​

Answer 1

Cl,Br,Ican have -1 to +7 oxidation state.But Oxidation state of F is fixed (-1) as it is the most electronegative element and do not loose electron. Hence, it does not show disproportionation tendency.

Answer 2

The correct option is c.

• Among the halogens, F is the most electronegative thus it has the lowest tendency to lose electrons and show a -1 oxidation state. Thus, F does not show a disproportionation tendency.
• On the other hand, Cl, Br, I have an oxidation state between -1 to +7. Thus they show a disproportionation reaction.
• Thus Fluorine does not show a disproportionation tendency.