Redox reactions

Front

What is a redox reaction?

Back

A redox reaction is a chemical reaction that involves the transfer of electrons between two species, resulting in changes in oxidation states.

Front

What does oxidation mean in a redox reaction?

Back

Oxidation is the process in which an atom, ion, or molecule loses electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation state.

Front

What does reduction mean in a redox reaction?

Back

Reduction is the process in which an atom, ion, or molecule gains electrons, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state.

Front

What is an oxidizing agent?

Back

An oxidizing agent is a substance that causes oxidation by accepting electrons from another substance.

Front

What is a reducing agent?

Back

A reducing agent is a substance that causes reduction by donating electrons to another substance.

Front

How do you determine the oxidation number of an element?

Back

The oxidation number of an element in a compound can be determined by following specific rules, such as the oxidation state of free elements is zero, and the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is zero.

Front

What is the oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds?

Back

The oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds is -2.

Front

What is the oxidation number of hydrogen in most compounds?

Back

The oxidation number of hydrogen in most compounds is +1.

Front

In the reaction 4Fe + 3O2 -> 2Fe2O3, what is being oxidized?

Back

Iron (Fe) is being oxidized as it loses electrons.

Front

In the reaction 4Fe + 3O2 -> 2Fe2O3, what is being reduced?

Back

Oxygen (O2) is being reduced as it gains electrons.