Question:
The compound AgF2 is an unstable compound. However, if formed, the compound acts as a very strong oxidizing agent. Why?
Solution:
The oxidation state of $\mathrm{Ag}$ in $\mathrm{AgF}_{2}$ is $+2$. But, $+2$ is an unstable oxidation state of $\mathrm{Ag}$. Therefore, whenever $\mathrm{AgF}_{2}$ is formed, silver readily accepts an electron to form $\mathrm{Ag}^{+}$. This helps to bring the oxidation state of $\mathrm{Ag}$ down from $+2$ to a more stable state of $+1$. As a result, $\mathrm{AgF}_{2}$ acts as a very strong oxidizing agent.