Redox Chemistry 1

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 their oxidation states.

Front

Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.

Back

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

Front

Define reduction in terms of electron transfer.

Back

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

Front

What is an oxidizing agent?

Back

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

Front

What is a reducing agent?

Back

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

Front

How do you determine the oxidation number of an element in a compound?

Back

The oxidation number of an element in a compound can be determined by using rules such as the oxidation state of free elements is zero, the oxidation state of monoatomic ions is equal to their charge, and the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is zero.

Front

What happens to the oxidation number of an element when it is oxidized?

Back

When an element is oxidized, its oxidation number increases.

Front

What happens to the oxidation number of an element when it is reduced?

Back

When an element is reduced, its oxidation number decreases.

Front

In the reaction 3Mg + N2 -> Mg3N2, identify the reducing agent.

Back

The reducing agent is Mg, as it donates electrons to N2.

Front

In the reaction NaOH + Li -> LiOH + Na, which substance is reduced?

Back

Na is reduced as it gains an electron to form LiOH.