Lecture on Oxidation and Reduction (Redox)

A set of flashcards covering the principles of oxidation and reduction reactions, including definitions, processes, and examples.

What is a Redox reaction?

A reaction involving the transfer of electrons, where one element is oxidized and another is reduced.

What does oxidation involve?

The loss of electrons.

What does reduction involve?

The gain of electrons.

What do oxidation numbers indicate?

They indicate the charge of an atom if all bonds were ionic.

What happens to the oxidation number when a substance is oxidized?

The oxidation number increases.

What happens to the oxidation number when a substance is reduced?

The oxidation number decreases.

What is the oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds?

-2, except in H2O2 where it is -1.

What is the oxidation number of hydrogen in most compounds?

+1, except in hydrides where it is -1.

In the reaction 2Na + F2 → 2Na+ + 2F-, what is being oxidized?

Na (Sodium is oxidized).

In the reaction 2Na + F2 → 2Na+ + 2F-, what is being reduced?

F2 (Fluorine is reduced).

What is an oxidizing agent?

The reactant that makes another substance oxidized.

What is a reducing agent?

The reactant that makes another substance reduced.