Chapter 14, Problem 14.3P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Oxidizing and reducing agent and balanced half-reaction for below reaction have to be determined.

  $\text{Na}\left(s\right)+{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\rightleftharpoons {\text{Na}}^{+}+{\text{OH}}^{-}+\frac{1}{2}{\text{H}}_2\left(g\right)$

Concept Introduction:

Oxidation refers to phenomenon of loss of electrons, loss of electropositive $\text{H}$ and gain of electronegative $\text{O}$. Substance that gets oxidized is termed as reducing agent.

Reduction is process that involves gain of electrons, gain of $\text{H}$ or loss of electronegative $\text{O}$ atom. Substance that gets reduced is termed as oxidizing agent.