Oxidation Chemistry Example 3

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Example 3

easy
Is iron rusting an example of oxidation? Explain.

Solution

  1. 1
    Yes. Iron reacts with oxygen and water: 4Fe+3O2+6H2O→4Fe(OH)34\text{Fe} + 3\text{O}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow 4\text{Fe(OH)}_3.
  2. 2
    Iron's oxidation number increases from 00 to +3+3, meaning it is oxidized.

Answer

Yes, Fe is oxidized (0 → +3)\text{Yes, Fe is oxidized (0 → +3)}
Rusting is a slow oxidation process. It is a redox reaction where iron loses electrons to oxygen.

About Oxidation

The loss of electrons by an atom, ion, or molecule during a chemical reaction, resulting in an increase in its oxidation state.

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More Oxidation Examples

Example 1 easy

In the reaction [formula], identify which species is oxidized.

Example 2 medium

In the reaction [formula], write the oxidation and reduction half-reactions.

Example 4 medium

In the reaction [formula], which substance is oxidized?

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