MCAT General Chemistry Question 153: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 153
3. Lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4) is often used in laboratories because of its tendency to donate a hydride ion. Which of the following roles would lithium aluminum hydride likely play in a reaction?
- A. Strong reducing agent only
- B. Strong oxidizing agent only
- C. Both a strong reducing agent and strong oxidizing agent
- D. Neither a strong reducing agent nor a strong oxidizing agent
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Hydride ions are composed of a hydrogen nucleus with two electrons, thereby giving it a negative charge and a considerable tendency to donate electrons. LiAlH4 is therefore a strong reducing agent. Strong reducing agents tend to have metals or hydrides; strong oxidizing agents tend to have oxygen or a similarly electronegative element.