Chapter 5, Problem 52P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A balanced chemical equation for the redox reaction between magnesium metal and oxygen needs to be written. The two half-reactions need to be determined to show the gain or lose of electrons.

Concept Introduction:

An oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction is a type of chemical reaction, where transfer of electrons among two species takes place. Whereas a half reaction is depicted as either reduction reaction or oxidation reaction of the component of a redox reaction. The species that gains electron undergoes reduction and the species that lose electrons gets oxidized. The oxidation and reduction can also be explained on the basis of gain or loss of H atoms. Gain of hydrogen is termed as reduction whereas loss of hydrogen is termed as oxidation.