Question
What is the driving force for the reaction
F₂ + H₂O -> H₂F₂ + O₂
Is the very low bond energy of F₂?
Joshi sir comment
Considering the electrode potential of hydrogen to be zero, electrode potential of fluorine is +2.87 volt. It implies that fluorine is best oxidising agent, and thus it oxidises oxygen in the given reaction. Besides it low bond energy of fluorine is also a factor for its dissociation and participation in the reaction.