I successfully completed the synthesis of bis(chromium(II)hydrate)tetraacetate (aka chromous acetate) using zinc as the reducing agent. For my lab report, I was asked to suggest at least two other reagents which may used in place of elemental zinc in the synthesis of Cr2(H2O)2(u-OAc)4.
Would magnesium metal and manganese metal work since both their standard reduction potentials are more negative than Zn(s)? And why does zinc make the more practical choice?
I couldnt find ANY literature showing this synthesis using any other reducing agent other than zinc...