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

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 number of an element in its elemental form?

Back

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

Front

What happens to the oxidation number of an element during oxidation?

Back

During oxidation, the oxidation number of an element increases.

Front

What happens to the oxidation number of an element during reduction?

Back

During reduction, the oxidation number of an element decreases.

Front

What is a cation?

Back

A cation is a positively charged ion that has lost one or more electrons.

Front

What is an anion?

Back

An anion is a negatively charged ion that has gained one or more electrons.

Front

In the reaction Mg → Mg^2+ + 2e^–, what is happening to magnesium?

Back

Magnesium is losing 2 electrons and is being oxidized.

Front

What is the significance of the electron transfer in redox reactions?

Back

The transfer of electrons in redox reactions is crucial for energy transfer in chemical processes and is fundamental to processes like combustion and respiration.