Chapter F, Problem K.24E

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Oxidizing agent or reducing agent has to be used in order to accomplish the conversion given has to be chosen.

    ${\text{H}}_{\text{3}}{\text{PO}}_{\text{3}}\text{(aq)}\to {\text{P}}_{\text{4}}{\text{O}}_{\text{10}}(g)$

Concept Introduction:

In redox reactions, oxidizing agent is the one that gets reduced by causing oxidation.  These agents can be ions, elements, or even compounds.  In oxidation, the oxidation number increases due to loss of electrons.

In redox reactions, reducing agent is the one that gets oxidized by causing reduction.  These agents can be ions, elements, or even compounds.  In reduction, the oxidation number decreases due to gain of electrons.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Oxidizing agent or reducing agent has to be used in order to accomplish the conversion given has to be chosen.

    ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{OH}\to {\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}\text{COOH}$

Concept Introduction:

Refer part (a).