Chapter 18.3, Problem 18.3SC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the given reaction is oxidation-reduction reaction or not should be determined. If yes, the oxidizing agent and reducing agent should be identified.

${\text{N}}_2\text{(}\text{g}{\text{)+3H}}_{\text{2}}\text{(}\text{g}\text{)}\to {\text{2NH}}_3\text{(}\text{g}\text{)}$.

Concept Introduction:

The chemical reaction in which both oxidation and reduction process takes place is known as redox reaction. In this reaction, transfer of electrons takes place among the elements.

Oxidation is the process in which either loss of electrons, oxidation number increases, or loss of hydrogen atoms takes place. An element is oxidized, when oxidation number increases.

Reduction is the process in which either gain of electrons, oxidation number decreases, or gain hydrogen atoms takes place. An element is reduced, when oxidation number decreases.

Oxidizing agent are those which are reduced in a chemical reaction or gain electrons whereas reducing agents are those which are oxidized in a chemical reaction or lose electrons.