Redox Reactions and Oxidation States

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 the oxidation state of an element in its elemental form?

Back

The oxidation state of an element in its elemental form is 0.

Front

What is the oxidation state of oxygen in most compounds?

Back

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

Front

What is the oxidation state of hydrogen in most compounds?

Back

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

Front

What happens to the oxidation state of zinc when it reacts to form zinc oxide?

Back

The oxidation state of zinc increases from 0 in elemental zinc to +2 in zinc oxide.

Front

What is rusting?

Back

Rusting is the process of corrosion of iron, resulting in the formation of iron oxides, commonly known as rust.

Front

In the reaction Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2, which element is oxidized?

Back

Zinc is oxidized as it loses electrons.

Front

What is the role of a reducing agent in a redox reaction?

Back

A reducing agent is a substance that donates electrons to another substance, causing the other substance to be reduced.