JEE Main · 2023 · 24 Jan 2023 · Shift 2 · s-Block Elements

Beryllium does show a less negative ${\mathrm{M}}^{2+}|M$ reduction potential than the other alkaline earth metals, so the assertion holds. Its reduction potential is fixed by the balance of atomisation enthalpy, ionisation enthalpy and hydration enthalpy; although the small $\mathrm{B}{\mathrm{e}}^{2+}$ ion gives a very large hydration enthalpy that would push the potential more negative, the unusually high atomisation enthalpy works the other way and dominates, leaving the potential less negative. Since this interplay is just what the reason describes, the reason is true and correctly explains the assertion.