Chapter 18.1, Problem 2RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The role of oxidation states to decide whether an oxidation or reduction reaction takes place needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: Oxidation-reduction reactions are characterized by a transfer of electrons. This transfer of electrons takes place to form ions. The oxidation reaction is caused by losing electrons and reduction is caused by gaining electrons.

Answer to Problem 2RQ

In a reaction, the increase in oxidation state indicates the oxidation reaction and a decrease in oxidation state results in reduction reaction.

Explanation of Solution

In a compound, the assigned charge to an atom is called the oxidation state of that atom. It indicates the number of electrons lost or gained by an atom during a chemical reaction. In a chemical reaction, if the oxidation state of the element increases the element gets oxidized and if the oxidation state of the element decreases, the element gets reduced.

Conclusion

The oxidation reaction is caused by losing electrons while reduction is caused by gaining electrons.