REDOX Review

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

Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.

Back

Oxidation is the process in which an atom, ion, or molecule loses electrons.

Front

Define reduction in terms of electron transfer.

Back

Reduction is the process in which an atom, ion, or molecule gains electrons.

Front

What is an oxidation number?

Back

An oxidation number is a value assigned to an element in a compound that represents the number of electrons lost or gained by that element.

Front

What does it mean for a substance to be oxidized?

Back

A substance is oxidized when it loses electrons and its oxidation state increases.

Front

What does it mean for a substance to be reduced?

Back

A substance is reduced when it gains electrons and its oxidation state decreases.

Front

In the reaction 2Ca + O2 -> 2CaO, what happens to calcium?

Back

Calcium is oxidized as it loses electrons to form CaO.

Front

Identify the oxidizing agent in a redox reaction.

Back

The oxidizing agent is the substance that gains electrons and is reduced in the reaction.

Front

Identify the reducing agent in a redox reaction.

Back

The reducing agent is the substance that loses electrons and is oxidized in the reaction.

Front

What is a half-reaction?

Back

A half-reaction is an equation that shows either the oxidation or reduction process separately.