CBSE · Class 10 · Science · Chemical Reactions and EquationsDescribe the concept of oxidation and reduction in terms of oxidation numbers.
Step-by-Step Solution
Oxidation and Reduction in Terms of Oxidation Numbers
Oxidation is the process of losing electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation number. Reduction is the process of gaining electrons, resulting in a decrease in oxidation number.
Example:
Consider the reaction: 2Mg + O2 → 2MgO
In this reaction, magnesium (Mg) loses electrons to form magnesium oxide (MgO). The oxidation number of magnesium increases from 0 to +2. This is an example of oxidation.
On the other hand, oxygen (O) gains electrons to form magnesium oxide (MgO). The oxidation number of oxygen decreases from 0 to -2. This is an example of reduction.
In this reaction, magnesium is the oxidizing agent, and oxygen is the reducing agent.
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