Oxidation and Reduction Flashcards
What is a redox reaction?
Oxidation and Reduction always taking place together
What are the four ways to define Oxidation?
- gain oxygen
- lose hydrogen
- lose electron(s)
- oxidation state increases
What is a reducing agent?
A substance that causes another substance to be reduced. However, it oxidises itself
What are the four ways to define Reduction?
- lose oxygen
- gain hydrogen
- gain electron(s)
- oxidation state decreases
What is an oxidising agent?
A substance that causes another substance to be oxidised. However, it reduces itself
If magnesium gets oxidised by chlorine, which is the reducing agent?
Magnesium
What is an oxidation state?
It refers to the charge an atom of an element would have if it existed as an ion in a compound (even if it is covalently bonded).
Why is the oxidation state of e.g. Mg, zero?
Oxidation state of an element is zero. (rule)
Why is the oxidation state of (e.g. O^2-) -2?
Oxidation state of a simple ion is the same as the charge on the ion. (rule)
Why is the oxidation state of e.g. Copper(II) Sulfate, +2?
The roman numerals in the name of a compound indicates the oxidation state of the transition element. (rule)
Why is the oxidation state of e.g. CaCO3, zero?
The sum of the oxidation states of the atoms or ions in a compound add up to zero. (rule)
