Chapter 19, Problem 55A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The term species is to be defined in terms of redox reaction.

Concept introduction:

Redox reaction is combination of oxidation and reduction reaction. In oxidation, there is loss of electrons and in reduction there is gain of electrons.

Answer to Problem 55A

Species is a substance or ion which takes part in redox reaction.

Explanation of Solution

Species is a substance or ion which takes part in redox reaction.

Let’s take example:

$2A{u}^{3+}+6I^{-}\to 2Au+3I_2$

$\stackrel{+3}{A{u}^{3+}}+\stackrel{-1}{I^{-}}\to \stackrel{0}{Au}+\stackrel{0}{I_2}$

The oxidation numbers of atoms shows that

$I^{-}$ is oxidized and $A{u}^{3+}$ is reduced.

Thus $I^{-}$ and $A{u}^{3+}$ are species in the given redox reaction.

Conclusion

Thus the ions involved in redox reactions are species.