6
OxidatiOn-reduCtiOn Chapter reaCtiOns
n many important chemical reactions, electrons are transferred from atom to atom.
6.1 An Introduction to
We are surrounded by these reactions, commonly called oxidationreduction (or
OxidationReduction
redox) reactions, inside and out. Lets consider a typical new millennium family,
Reactions
sitting around the dining room table after the dishes have been cleared.
Mom, a computer programmer, is typing away on her portable computer. Shes 6.2 Oxidation Numbers
very anxious to see if the idea she got while on her drive home will fix a glitch in the
6.3 Types of Chemical
accounting program at work. Christine,
Reactions
the thirteenyearold, is fighting the
bad guys on her video game. The
6.4 Voltaic Cells
electric currents from the batteries that
power the computer and the game
are generated by oxidationreduction
reactions. Buddy, whos 15, has recently
become interested in studying Eastern
Philosophy. Just now, hes gazing
meditatively out into space, but redox
reactions are powering his activity as
well; they are important for the storage
and release of energy in all our bodies.
Dads an engineer in charge of blasting a tunnel
under the bay for the citys new rapid transit
project. Each of the explosions that he triggers
is created by oxidationreduction reactions. The
silverware he has just cleared from the table
is tarnishing due to redox reactions, and the
Oxidation-reduction reactions power
combustion of natural gas in the heater warming
ourselves and many of our tools and
the room is a redox reaction as well
toys.
Review Skills
The presentation of information in this chapter assumes that you can already perform
the tasks listed below. You can test your readiness to proceed by answering the Review
Questions at the end of the chapter. This might also be a good time to read the Chapter
Objectives, which precede the Review Questions.
Determine the charge on a monatomic
Identify a chemical formula as representing
ion in an ionic formula. (Section 3.5)
an element, a binary ionic compound,
Determine the formulas, including the
an ionic compound with one or
charges, for common polyatomic ions.
two polyatomic ions, or a molecular
(Section 3.5)
compound. (Section 5.3)
207
208
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
6.1 An Introduction to Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Zinc oxide is a white substance used as a pigment in rubber, sunblocking ointments,
and paint. It is added to plastics to make them less likely to be damaged by ultraviolet
radiation and is also used as a dietary supplement. It can be made from the reaction of
pure zinc and oxygen:
2Zn(s) + O2( g ) 2ZnO(s)
In a similar reaction that occurs every time you drive your car around the block,
nitrogen monoxide is formed from some of the nitrogen and oxygen that are drawn
into your cars engine:
N2( g ) + O2( g ) 2NO( g )
This nitrogen monoxide in turn produces other substances that lead to acid rain and
help create the brown haze above our cities.
When an element, such as zinc or nitrogen, combines with oxygen, chemists say
it is oxidized (or undergoes oxidation). They also use the term oxidation to describe
many similar reactions that do not have oxygen as a reactant. This section explains
the meaning of oxidation and shows why oxidation is coupled with a corresponding
chemical change called reduction.
Oxidation, Reduction, and the Formation of Binary Ionic Compounds
Zinc oxide is an ionic compound made up of zinc cations, Zn2+, and oxide anions,
O2. When uncharged zinc and oxygen atoms react to form zinc oxide, electrons are
transferred from the zinc atoms to the oxygen atoms to form these ions. Each zinc
atom loses two electrons, and each oxygen atom gains two electrons.
ObjeCtive 2
Overall reaction: 2Zn(s) + O2( g ) 2ZnO(s)
What happens to Zn: Zn Zn2+ + 2e or 2Zn 2Zn2+ + 4e
What happens to O: O + 2e O2
or O2 + 4e 2O2
As we saw in Chapter 3, this transfer of electrons from metal atoms to nonmetal
atoms is the general process for the formation of any binary ionic compound from its
elements. For example, when sodium chloride is formed from the reaction of metallic
sodium with gaseous chlorine, each sodium atom loses an electron, and each chlorine
atom gains one.
ObjeCtive 2
Overall reaction: 2Na(s) + Cl2( g ) 2NaCl(s)
Na Na+ + e
or
2Na 2Na+ + 2e
Cl + e Cl
or
Cl2 + 2e 2Cl
The reactions that form sodium chloride and zinc oxide from their elements are so
similar that chemists find it useful to describe them using the same terms. Zinc atoms
that lose electrons in the reaction with oxygen are said to be oxidized; therefore, when
sodium atoms undergo a similar change in their reaction with chlorine, chemists say
they too are oxidized, even though no oxygen is present. According to the modern
convention, any chemical change in which an element loses electrons is called an
oxidation (Figure 6.1).
6.1 An Introduction to Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Formation of NaCl
e
+
+
e
Sodium chloride
Sodium + Chlorine Sodium + Chloride
atoms
molecule
ions
ions
Ionic bonds
Oxidation of zinc
2e
2e
2+
2
2+
2
Zinc o x i d e
Zinc + Oxygen Zinc + Oxide
ions
ions
atoms molecule
ObjeCtive 2
Figure 6.1
Oxidation and the Formation of Binary Ionic Compounds
The concept of reduction has undergone a similar evolution. At high temperature,
zinc oxide, ZnO, reacts with carbon, C, to form molten zinc and carbon monoxide
gas.
2NaCl(l )
Electric current
2Na(l ) + Cl2( g)
oxidation: 2Cl Cl2 + 2e
reduction: 2Na+ + 2e 2Na
Electrons are rarely found unattached to atoms. Thus, for one element or compound
xid
s atio
n
os
s
n
OIL
ain
ed
u
s ctio
ZnO(s) + C(s)
Zn(l ) + CO( g )
Bonds between zinc atoms and oxygen atoms are lost in this reaction, so chemists
say the zinc has been reduced. Like the term oxidation, the term reduction has been
expanded to include similar reactions, even when oxygen is not a participant. The zinc
ions in zinc oxide have a +2 charge, and the atoms in metallic zinc are uncharged. Thus,
in the conversion of zinc oxide to metallic zinc, each zinc ion must gain two electrons.
According to the modern definition, any chemical change in which an element gains
electrons is called a reduction. (Yes, reduction means a gain of electrons.) Because this
can be confusing, some people use a memory aid to remember what oxidation and
reduction mean in terms of the electron transfer. One device is the phrase oil rig which
stands for oxidation is loss (of electrons) and reduction is gain (of electrons).
When an electric current passes through molten sodium chloride, the sodium ions,
Na+, are converted to uncharged sodium atoms, and the chloride ions, Cl, are converted
to uncharged chlorine molecules, Cl2. Because sodium ions gain one electron each, we
say they are reduced. Chloride ions lose one electron each, so they are oxidized.
RIG
209
210
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
to lose electrons and be oxidized, another element or compound must be there to gain
the electrons and be reduced. In other words, oxidation (loss of electrons) must be
accompanied by reduction (gain of electrons). In the reaction that forms ZnO from
Zn and O2, the uncharged zinc atoms cannot easily lose electrons and be oxidized
unless something such as oxygen is there to gain the electrons and be reduced. In the
reaction that converts NaCl to Na and Cl2, the chloride ions can lose electrons and be
oxidized because the sodium ions are available to gain the electrons and be reduced.
By similar reasoning, we can say that reduction requires oxidation. Because electrons
are not likely to be found separated from an element or compound, a substance cannot
gain electrons and be reduced unless there is another substance that is able to transfer
the electrons and be oxidized. Oxidation and reduction take place together.
Reactions in which electrons are transferred, resulting in oxidation and reduction,
are called oxidation-reduction reactions. Because the term oxidation-reduction is a bit
cumbersome, we usually call these reactions redox reactions.
Even though the oxidation and reduction of a redox reaction take place simultaneously,
each making the other possible, chemists often have reason to describe the reactions
separately. The separate oxidation and reduction equations are called half-reactions.
For example, in the reaction:
2Zn(s) + O2( g ) 2ZnO(s)
the oxidation halfreaction is
2Zn 2Zn2+ + 4e
and the reduction halfreaction is
O2 + 4e 2O2
Because the zinc atoms lose the electrons that make it possible for the oxygen atoms to
gain electrons and be reduced, the zinc is called the reducing agent. A reducing agent
is a substance that loses electrons, making it possible for another substance to gain
electrons and be reduced. The oxidized substance is always the reducing agent.
Because the oxygen atoms gain electrons and make it possible for the zinc atoms to
lose electrons and be oxidized, the oxygen is called the oxidizing agent. An oxidizing
agent is a substance that gains electrons, making it possible for another substance to
lose electrons and be oxidized. The reduced substance is always the oxidizing agent.
In the reaction that forms sodium chloride from the elements sodium and chlorine,
sodium is oxidized, and chlorine is reduced. Because sodium makes it possible for
chlorine to be reduced, sodium is the reducing agent in this reaction. Because chlorine
makes it possible for sodium to be oxidized, chlorine is the oxidizing agent.
2Na(s) +
reducing
agent
Cl2( g ) 2NaCl(s)
oxidizing
agent
Oxidation Halfreaction:
2Na 2Na+ + 2e
Reduction Halfreaction:
Cl2 + 2e
2Cl
6.1 An Introduction to Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Oxidation-Reduction and Molecular Compounds
The oxidation of nitrogen to form nitrogen monoxide is very similar to the oxidation
of zinc to form zinc oxide.
N2( g ) + O2( g ) 2NO( g )
2Zn(s) + O2( g ) 2ZnO(s)
The main difference between these reactions is that as the nitrogen monoxide forms,
electrons are not transferred completely, as occurs in the formation of zinc oxide, and
no ions are formed. Nitrogen monoxide is a molecular compound, and the bonds
between the nitrogen and the oxygen are covalent bonds, in which electrons are shared.
Because the oxygen atoms attract electrons more strongly than nitrogen atoms, there
is a partial transfer of electrons from the nitrogen atoms to the oxygen atoms in the
formation of NO molecules, leading to polar bonds with a partial negative charge on
each oxygen atom and a partial positive charge on each nitrogen atom.
O
Because the reactions are otherwise so much alike, chemists have expanded the
definition of oxidationreduction reactions to include partial as well as complete transfer
of electrons. Thus oxidation is defined as the complete or partial loss of electrons,
reduction as the complete or partial gain of electrons. The nitrogen in the reaction
that forms NO from nitrogen and oxygen is oxidized, and the oxygen is reduced.
Because the nitrogen makes it possible for the oxygen to be reduced, the nitrogen is the
reducing agent. The oxygen is the oxidizing agent (Figure 6.2).
ObjeCtive 2
+ N
N2( g )
+
O2( g )
Oxidized;
Reduced;
the reducing agent the oxidizing agent
ObjeCtive 2
2NO( g )
Special Topic 6.1 Oxidizing Agents and Aging describes how oxidizing agents might
play a role in aging and how a good healthy diet might slow the aging process.
e
e reducing agent loses electrons
and thus is oxidized in the reaction.
Complete transfer
of electrons
+
Ionic bond
e oxidizing agent gains electrons
and thus is reduced in the reaction.
Partial transfer
of electrons
+
Polar covalent bond
ObjeCtive 2
Figure 6.2
Redox Reactions
In oxidation-reduction
(redox) reactions, electrons
are completely or partially
transferred.
211
212
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
SPECIAL TOPIC 6.1
Oxidizing Agents and Aging
In some of the normal chemical reactions that take place in
the human body, strong oxidizing agents, such as hydrogen
peroxide, are formed. These highly reactive substances
cause chemical changes in cell DNA that can be damaging
unless the changes are reversed. Fortunately, in healthy cells,
normal repair reactions occur that convert the altered DNA
back to its normal form
Normal DNA
Oxidizing agents
(such as H2O2)
Normal repair
Altered DNA
The repair mechanisms are thought to slow down with
age. Some medical researchers believe that this slowing down
of DNA repair is connected to certain diseases associated
with aging, such as cancer, heart disease, cataracts, and brain
dysfunction.
Normal DNA
Oxidizing agents
(such as H2O2)
Normal repair
slowed with aging
Altered DNA
Substances called antioxidants that are found in food
react with oxidizing agents (such as hydrogen peroxide) and
thus remove them from our system. This is believed to slow
the alteration of DNA, so the slower rate of normal repair
can balance it.
Fewer
oxidizing agents
Normal DNA
Normal repair
slowed with aging
Altered DNA
Vitamins C and E are antioxidants, and foods that
contain relatively high amounts of them are considered
important in slowing some of the medical problems that
come from aging. Five servings of fruits and vegetables per
day are thought to supply enough antioxidants to provide
reasonable protection from the damage done by oxidizing
agents.
Five portions of fruits and vegetables per day have enough
of the antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E to mitigate
some of the problems of aging.
6.2 Oxidation Numbers
213
6.2 Oxidation Numbers
Phosphates, like ammonium phosphate, are important components of fertilizers used
to stimulate the growth of agricultural crops and to make our gardens green. Their
commercial synthesis requires elemental phosphorus, which can be acquired by heating
phosphate rock (containing calcium phosphate) with sand (containing silicon dioxide)
and coke (a carbonrich mixture produced by heating coal). This method for isolating
phosphorus, called the furnace process, is summarized in the first equation below. The
other equations show how phosphorus can be converted into ammonium phosphate.
2Ca3(PO4)2 + 6SiO2 + 10C P4 + 10CO + 6CaSiO3
P4 + 5O2 + 6H2O 4H3PO4
H3PO4 + NH3 (NH4)3PO4
Are these reactions oxidationreduction reactions? Are electrons transferred? Simply
reading a chemical equation does not always tell us whether oxidation and reduction
have occurred, so chemists have developed a numerical system to help identify a reaction
as redox. For redox reactions, this system also shows us which element is oxidized,
which is reduced, what the oxidizing agent is, and what the reducing agent is.
The first step in this system is to assign an oxidation number to each atom in the
reaction equation. As you become better acquainted with the procedure, you will gain
a better understanding of what the numbers signify, but for now, just think of them as
tools for keeping track of the flow of electrons in redox reactions. Oxidation numbers
are also called oxidation states.
If any element undergoes a change of oxidation number in the course of a reaction,
the reaction is a redox reaction. If an elements oxidation number increases in a reaction,
that element is oxidized. If an elements oxidation number decreases in a reaction, that
element is reduced. The reactant containing the element that is oxidized is the reducing
agent. The reactant containing the element that is reduced is the oxidizing agent (Table
6.1).
Table 6.1
Questions Answered by the Determination of Oxidation Numbers
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
Question
Answer
Is the reaction redox?
If any atoms change their oxidation number, the reaction is
redox.
Which element is oxidized?
The element that increases its oxidation number is oxidized.
Which element is reduced?
The element that decreases its oxidation number is reduced.
Whats the reducing agent?
The reactant that contains the element that is oxidized is the
reducing agent.
Whats the oxidizing agent?
The reactant that contains the element that is reduced is the
oxidizing agent.
Study Sheet 6.1 on the next page describes how you can assign oxidation numbers
to individual atoms.
214
Chapter 6
Sample Study
Sheet 6.1
Assignment
of Oxidation
Numbers
ObjeCtive 3
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Tip-off You are asked to determine the oxidation number of an atom, or you need to
assign oxidation numbers to atoms to determine whether a reaction is a redox reaction,
and if it is, to identify which element is oxidized, which is reduced, what the oxidizing
agent is, and what the reducing agent is.
General Steps
Use the following guidelines to assign oxidation numbers to as many atoms as
you can. (Table 6.2 provides a summary of these guidelines with examples.)
The oxidation number for each atom in a pure element is zero.
The oxidation number of a monatomic ion is equal to its charge.
When fluorine atoms are combined with atoms of other elements, their
oxidation number is 1.
When oxygen atoms are combined with atoms of other elements, their
oxidation number is 2, except in peroxides, such as hydrogen peroxide,
H2O2, where their oxidation number is 1. (There are other exceptions that
you will not see in this text.)
The oxidation number for each hydrogen atom in a molecular compound or
a polyatomic ion is +1.
If a compounds formula contains one element for which you cannot assign
an oxidation number using the guidelines listed above, calculate the oxidation
number according to the following rules.
The sum of the oxidation numbers for the atoms in an uncharged formula is
equal to zero.
The sum of the oxidation numbers for the atoms in a polyatomic ion is equal
to the overall charge on the ion.
Example See Example 6.1.
Table 6.2
Guidelines for Assigning Oxidation Numbers
Pure element
Oxidation
number
0
Monatomic ions
charge on
ion
Fluorine in the
combined form
1
Oxygen in the
combined form
2
Hydrogen in the
combined form
+1
Examples
Exceptions
The oxidation number
for each atom in
Zn, H2, and S8 is zero.
Cd in CdCl2 is +2.
Cl in CdCl2 is 1.
H in LiH is 1.
F in AlF3 is 1.
F in CF4 is 1.
O in ZnO is 2.
O in H2O is 2.
H in H2O is +1.
none
none
none
O is 1 in peroxides,
such as H2O2
H is 1 when combined
with a metal.
6.2 Oxidation Numbers
Example 6.1 shows how we can use our new tools.
example 6.1 - Oxidation Numbers and Redox Reactions
The following equations represent the reactions that lead to the formation of
ammonium phosphate for fertilizers. Determine the oxidation number for each atom
in the formulas. Decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction, and if it is, identify
what element is oxidized, what is reduced, what the oxidizing agent is, and what the
reducing agent is.
a. 2Ca3(PO4)2 + 6SiO2 + 10C P4 + 10CO + 6CaSiO3
b. P4 + 5O2 + 6H2O
c. H3PO4 + NH3
Solution
4H3PO4
(NH4)3PO4
a. The first step is to determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
reaction. Lets consider the first equation above:
Combined oxygen,
oxidation number 2
Pure elements,
oxidation number
zero
2Ca3(PO4)2 + 6SiO2 + 10C
Monatomic ion,
oxidation number
equal to its charge (+2)
Monatomic ion,
oxidation number
equal to its charge (+2)
P4 + 10CO + 6CaSiO3
Combined oxygen,
oxidation number 2
Because the sum of the oxidation numbers for the atoms in an uncharged
molecule is zero, the oxidation number of the carbon atom in CO is +2:
(ox # C) + (ox # O) = 0
(ox # C) + 2 = 0
(ox # C) = +2
Using a similar process, we can assign a +4 oxidation number to the silicon
atom in SiO2:
(ox # Si) + 2(ox # O) = 0
(ox # Si) + 2(2) = 0
(ox # Si) = +4
Calcium phosphate, Ca3(PO4)2, is an ionic compound that contains
monatomic calcium ions, Ca2+, and polyatomic phosphate ions, PO43. The
oxidation number of each phosphorus atom can be determined in two ways.
The following shows how it can be done considering the whole formula.
3(ox # Ca) + 2(ox # P) + 8(ox # O) = 0
3(+2) + 2(ox # P) + 8(2) = 0
(ox # P) = +5
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
215
216
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
The oxidation number for the phosphorus atom in PO43 is always the same,
no matter what the cation is that balances its charge. Thus we could also have
determined the oxidation number of each phosphorus atom by considering
the phosphate ion separately from the calcium ion.
(ox # P) + 4(ox # O) = 3
(ox # P) + 4(2) = 3
(ox # P) = +5
The silicon atoms in CaSiO3 must have an oxidation number of +4.
(ox # Ca) + (ox # Si) + 3(ox # O) = 0
(+2) + (ox # Si) + 3(2) = 0
(ox # Si) = +4
The oxidation numbers for the individual atoms in the first reaction are
below.
Oxidation number increases, oxidized
+2 +5 2
+4 2
0
0
2Ca3(PO4)2 + 6SiO2 + 10C
+2 2
+2 +4 2
P4 + 10CO + 6CaSiO3
Oxidation number decreases, reduced
Phosphorus atoms and carbon atoms change their oxidation numbers, so
the reaction is redox. Each phosphorus atom changes its oxidation number
from +5 to zero, so the phosphorus atoms in Ca3(PO4)2 are reduced, and
Ca3(PO4)2 is the oxidizing agent. Each carbon atom changes its oxidation
number from zero to +2, so the carbon atoms are oxidized, and carbon is the
reducing agent.
b. Now, lets consider the second reaction.
Combined oxygen, oxidation number 2
P4 + 5O2 + 6H2O
4H3PO4
Pure elements,
Hydrogen in a molecular compound,
oxidation number 0
oxidation number +1
The following shows how we can determine the oxidation number of the
phosphorus atom in H3PO4:
3(ox # H) + (ox # P) + 4(ox # O) = 0
3(+1) + (ox # P) + 4(2) = 0
(ox # P) = +5
6.2 Oxidation Numbers
The oxidation numbers for the individual atoms in the second reaction are
below.
Oxidation number increases, oxidized
0
0
+1 2
+1 +5 2
P4 + 5O2 + 6H2O
4H3PO4
Oxidation number decreases, reduced
Phosphorus atoms and oxygen atoms change their oxidation numbers, so
the reaction is redox. Each phosphorus atom changes its oxidation number
from zero to +5, so the phosphorus atoms in P4 are oxidized, and P4 is the
reducing agent. Each oxygen atom in O2 changes its oxidation number from
zero to 2, so the oxygen atoms in O2 are reduced, and O2 is the oxidizing
agent.
c. Finally, lets consider the third reaction.
Hydrogen in a molecule,
oxidation number +1
Hydrogen in a polyatomic ion,
oxidation number +1
H3PO4 + NH3
(NH4)3PO4
Combined oxygen, oxidation number 2
We know from part (b) that the oxidation number of the phosphorus atoms
in H3PO4 is +5.
The oxidation number of the nitrogen atom in NH3 is calculated below.
(ox # N) + 3(ox # H) = 0
(ox # N) + 3(+1) = 0
(ox # N) = 3
We can determine the oxidation number of each nitrogen atom in
(NH4)3PO4 in two ways, either from the whole formula or from the formula
for the ammonium ion alone.
3(ox # N) + 12(ox # H) + (ox # P) + 4(ox # O) = 0
3(ox # N) + 12(+1) + (+5) + 4(2) = 0
(ox # N) = 3
or (ox # N) + 4(ox # H) = +1
(ox # N) + 4(+1) = +1
(ox # N) = 3
The oxidation numbers for the individual atoms in this reaction are below.
+1 +5 2
3 +1
H3PO4 + NH3
3 +1 +5 2
(NH4)3PO4
None of the atoms change their oxidation number, so the reaction is not redox.
217
218
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
exerCise 6.1 - Oxidation Numbers
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
In one part of the steel manufacturing process, carbon is combined with iron to form
pig iron. Pig iron is easier to work with than pure iron because it has a lower melting
point (about 1130 C compared to 1539 C for pure iron) and is more pliable. The
following equations describe its formation. Determine the oxidation number for each
atom in the formulas. Decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction, and if it is,
identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, what the oxidizing agent is, and what the
reducing agent is.
2C(s) + O2( g ) 2CO( g )
Fe2O3(s) + CO( g ) 2Fe(l ) + 3CO2( g )
2CO( g ) C(in iron) + CO2( g )
Equations for redox reactions can be difficult to balance, but your ability to
determine oxidation numbers can help. You can find a description of the process
for balancing redox equations at the textbooks Web site.
6.3 Types of Chemical Reactions
Chemists often group reactions into general categories, rather than treating each
chemical change as unique. For example, you saw in Chapter 4 that many chemical
changes can be assigned to the category of precipitation reactions. Understanding
the general characteristics of this type of reaction helped you to learn how to predict
products and write equations for specific precipitation reactions. You developed similar
skills in Chapter 5 for neutralization reactions. Because several types of chemical
reactions can also be redox reactions, we continue the discussion of types of chemical
reactions here.
Combination Reactions
ObjeCtive 7
In combination reactions, two or more elements or compounds combine to form one
compound. Combination reactions are also called synthesis reactions. The following
are examples of combination reactions.
2Na(s) + Cl2( g ) 2NaCl(s)
C(s) + O2( g ) CO2( g )
MgO(s) + H2O(l ) Mg(OH)2(s)
Two of the above combination reactions are also redox reactions. Can you tell which
one is not?
6.3 Types of Chemical Reactions
219
Decomposition Reactions
In decomposition reactions, one compound is converted into two or more simpler
substances. The products can be either elements or compounds. For example, when
an electric current is passed through liquid water or molten sodium chloride, these
compounds decompose to form their elements.
2H2O(l )
2NaCl(l )
Electric current
Electric current
ObjeCtive 7
2H2( g ) + O2( g )
2Na(l ) + Cl2( g )
Another example is the decomposition of nitroglycerin. When this
compound decomposes, it produces large amounts of gas and heat, making
nitroglycerin a dangerous explosive.
4C3H5N3O9(l ) 12CO2( g ) + 6N2( g ) + 10H2O( g ) + O2( g )
As is true of combination reactions, not all decomposition reactions are redox
reactions. The following equation represents a decomposition reaction that is
not a redox reaction.
CaCO3(s)
CaO(s) + CO2( g )
Dynamite, which has nitroglycerine
as its active component, can be used
to blast tunnels through solid rock.
Combustion Reactions
ObjeCtive 7
A log burns in the fireplace as a result of a combustion reaction, a redox reaction
in which oxidation is very rapid and is accompanied by heat and usually light. The
combustion reactions that you will be expected to recognize have oxygen, O2, as one
of the reactants. For example, the elements carbon, hydrogen, and sulfur react with
oxygen in combustion reactions.
C(s) + O2( g ) CO2( g )
2H2( g ) + O2( g ) 2H2O(l )
S8(s) + 8O2( g ) 8SO2( g )
When any substance that contains carbon is combusted (or burned) completely,
ObjeCtive 8
the carbon forms carbon dioxide. When a substance that contains hydrogen is burned
completely, the hydrogen forms water. Therefore, when hydrocarbons
found in natural gas, gasoline, and other petroleum products burn
completely, the only products are CO2 and H2O. The equations below
represent the combustion reactions for methane, the primary component
of natural gas, and hexane, which is found in gasoline.
CH4( g ) + 2O2( g ) CO2( g ) + 2H2O(l )
2C6H14(l ) + 19O2( g ) 12CO2( g ) + 14H2O(l )
The complete combustion of a substance, such as ethanol, C2H5OH,
that contains carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen also yields carbon dioxide Combustion reactions include oxygen as
and water.
a reactant and are accompanied by heat
and usually light.
C2H5OH(l ) + 3O2( g ) 2CO2( g ) + 3H2O(l )
When any substance that contains sulfur burns completely, the sulfur forms sulfur
dioxide. For example, when methanethiol, CH3SH, burns completely, it forms carbon
dioxide, water, and sulfur dioxide. Small amounts of this strongsmelling substance are
ObjeCtive 8
220
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
added to natural gas to give the otherwise odorless gas a smell that can be detected in
case of leaks (Figure 6.3).
CH3SH( g ) + 3O2( g ) CO2( g ) + 2H2O(l ) + SO2( g )
Figure 6.3
Odor of Natural Gas
The methane thiol added to natural gas
warns us when there is a leak.
sulfur atom
The following sample study sheet lists the steps for writing equations for combustion
reactions.
Sample Study
Sheet 6.2
Writing
Equations for
Combustion
Reactions
ObjeCtive 8
Tip-off You are asked to write an equation for the complete combustion of a substance
composed of one or more of the elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur.
General Steps
Step 1 Write the formula for the substance combusted.
Step 2 Write O2( g ) for the second reactant.
Step 3 Predict the products using the following guidelines.
a. If the compound contains carbon, one product will be CO2( g ).
b. If the compound contains hydrogen, one product will be H2O(l ).
(Even though water may be gaseous when it is first formed
in a combustion reaction, we usually describe it as a liquid in
the equation. By convention, we usually describe the state of
each reactant and product as their state at room temperature
and pressure. When water returns to room temperature, it is a
liquid.)
c. If the compound contains sulfur, one product will be SO2( g ).
d. Any oxygen in the combusted substance would be distributed
between the products already mentioned.
Step 4 Balance the equation.
Example See Example 6.2.
example 6.2 - Combustion Reactions
ObjeCtive 8
Write balanced equations for the complete combustion of (a) C8H18(l ),
(b) CH3OH(l ), and (c) C3H7SH(l ).
Solution
a. The carbon in C8H18 goes to CO2( g ), and the hydrogen goes to H2O(l ).
2C8H18(l ) + 25O2( g ) 16CO2( g ) + 18H2O(l )
b. The carbon in CH3OH goes to CO2( g ), the hydrogen goes to H2O(l ), and
the oxygen is distributed between the CO2( g ) and the H2O(l ).
2CH3OH(l ) + 3O2( g ) 2CO2( g ) + 4H2O(l )
c. The carbon in C3H7SH goes to CO2( g ), the hydrogen goes to H2O(l ), and
the sulfur goes to SO2( g ).
C3H7SH(l ) + 6O2( g ) 3CO2( g ) + 4H2O(l ) + SO2( g )
6.3 Types of Chemical Reactions
221
exerCise 6.2 - Combustion Reactions
Write balanced equations for the complete combustion of (a) C4H10( g ),
(b) C3H7OH(l ), and (c) C4H9SH(l ).
ObjeCtive 8
If there is insufficient oxygen to burn a carboncontaining compound completely,
the incomplete combustion converts some of the carbon into carbon monoxide, CO.
Because the combustion of gasoline in a cars engine is not complete, the exhaust that
leaves the engine contains both carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. However, before
this exhaust escapes out the tail pipe, it passes through a catalytic converter, which
further oxidizes much of the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide. See the Special Topic
6.2: Air Pollution and Catalytic Converters.
SPECIAL TOPIC 6.2
Air Pollution and Catalytic Converters
When gasoline, which is a mixture of hydrocarbons, burns
in the cylinders of a car engine, the primary products are
carbon dioxide and water. Unfortunately, the hydrocarbons
are not burned completely, so the exhaust leaving the
cylinders also contains some unburned hydrocarbons and
some carbon monoxide, which are serious pollutants.
When the unburned hydrocarbon molecules escape into the
atmosphere, they combine with other substances to form eye
irritants and other problematic compounds.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and poisonous
gas. When inhaled, it deprives the body of oxygen.
Normally, hemoglobin molecules in the blood carry oxygen
throughout the body, but when carbon monoxide is
present, it combines with hemoglobin and prevents oxygen
from doing so. As little as 0.001% CO in air can lead to
headache, dizziness, and nausea. Concentrations of 0.1%
can cause death.
Catalytic converters in automobile exhaust systems were
developed to remove some of the carbon monoxide and
unburned hydrocarbons from automobile exhaust. A catalyst
is any substance that speeds a chemical reaction without
being permanently altered itself. Some of the transition
metals, such as platinum, palladium, iridium, and rhodium,
and some transition metal oxides, such as V2O5, CuO,
and Cr2O3, will speed up oxidationreduction reactions.
An automobiles catalytic converter contains tiny beads
coated with a mixture of transition metals and transition
metal oxides. When the exhaust passes over these beads, the
oxidation of CO to CO2 and the conversion of unburned
hydrocarbons to CO2 and H2O are both promoted.
The conversion of CO to CO2 and of unburned
hydrocarbons to CO2 and H2O is very slow at normal
temperatures, but it takes place quite rapidly at temperatures
around 600 F. This means that the removal of the CO and
hydrocarbon pollutants does not take place efficiently when
you first start your engine. The pollutants released when a
car is first started are called coldstart emissions. Recent
research has focused on developing a way to insulate the
catalytic converter so it retains its heat even when the car
is not running. Some of the prototypes can maintain their
operating temperatures for almost a day while the engine
is shut off. With these new, insulated catalytic converters
installed in most cars, coldstart emissions could be reduced
by at least 50%. This could have a significant effect on air
pollution.
In from engine:
CO
unburned hydrocarbons
Calalytic converter
Out through
exhaust pipe:
CO2
H2O
less CO
less unburned hydrocarbons
222
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Single-Displacement Reactions
ObjeCtive 7
Now lets consider another type of chemical reaction. In singledisplacement reactions,
atoms of one element in a compound are displaced (or replaced) by atoms from a
pure element. These reactions are also called singlereplacement reactions. All of the
following are singledisplacement reactions.
Pure element displaces element in compound
Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq)
ZnSO4(aq) + Cu(s)
Cd(s) + H2SO4(aq)
CdSO4(aq) + H2( g )
Cl2( g ) + 2NaI(aq)
ObjeCtive 9
2NaCl(aq) + I2(s)
Our model of particle behavior enables us to visualize the movements of atoms
and ions participating in singledisplacement reactions. For example, consider the
first equation above, a reaction in which atoms of zinc replace ions of copper in a
copper sulfate solution. Because copper(II) sulfate is a watersoluble ionic compound,
the CuSO4 solution consists of free Cu2+ ions surrounded by the negatively charged
oxygen ends of water molecules and free SO42 ions surrounded by the positively
charged hydrogen ends of water molecules. These ions move throughout the solution,
colliding with each other, with water molecules, and with the walls of their container.
Now imagine that a lump of solid zinc is added to the solution. Copper ions begin to
collide with the surface of the zinc. When the Cu2+ ions collide with the uncharged
zinc atoms, two electrons are transferred from the zinc atoms to the copper(II) ions.
The resulting zinc ions move into solution, where they become surrounded by the
negatively charged ends of water molecules, and the uncharged copper solid forms on
the surface of the zinc (Figure 6.4).
Because the zinc atoms lose electrons in this reaction and change their oxidation
number from 0 to +2, they are oxidized, and zinc is the reducing agent. The Cu2+ ions
gain electrons and decrease their oxidation number from +2 to 0, so they are reduced
and act as the oxidizing agent. The half reaction equations and the net ionic equation
for this reaction are below.
oxidation: Zn(s) Zn2+(aq) + 2e
reduction: Cu2+(aq) + 2e
Cu(s)
Net Ionic Equation: Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) Zn2+(aq) + Cu(s)
You can see an animation that illustrates the reaction above at the textbooks Web
site.
6.3 Types of Chemical Reactions
Cu2+ ions collide with Zn
atoms, producing Cu atoms
and Zn2+ ions.
2+
2+ 2
2+
2-
2+
2+
2+
2-
2
2+
2
2+
2-
2-
2+
2+
2-
2-
2-
2+
2-
22+
500
2e
2+
Copper ions,
Cu2+
Zn2+ ions move
into solution.
2
2-
2
Sulfate ion, SO4
223
2+
2 2+
2+
2+
400
Cu atoms collect
on the solid.
2
300
200
100
Zinc metal
Figure 6.4
ObjeCtive 9
Single-Displacement Reaction
Between Copper(II) Sulfate and
Solid Zinc
Example 6.3 shows how chemical changes can be classified with respect to the
categories described in this section.
example 6.3 - Classification of Chemical Reactions
Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories: combination
reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and singledisplacement
reaction.
a. 2Fe2O3(s) + 3C(s) 4Fe(l ) + 3CO2( g )
b. Cl2( g ) + F2( g ) 2ClF( g )
c. 2Pb(NO3)2(s)
4NO2( g ) + 2PbO(s) + O2( g )
d. C5H11SH(l ) + 9O2( g ) 5CO2( g ) + 6H2O(l ) + SO2( g )
Solution
a. 2Fe2O3(s) + 3C(s)
4Fe(l ) + 3CO2( g )
Because the atoms of the pure element carbon are displacing
(or replacing) the atoms of iron in iron(III) oxide, this is a
singledisplacement reaction. This particular reaction is used to isolate
metallic iron from iron ore.
b. Cl2( g ) + F2( g ) 2ClF( g )
Because two substances are combining to form one substance, this is a
combination reaction.
ObjeCtive 7
224
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
4NO2( g ) + 2PbO(s) + O2( g )
c. 2Pb(NO3)2(s)
Because one substance is being converted into more than one substance,
this is a decomposition reaction.
d. C5H11SH(l ) + 9O2( g ) 5CO2( g ) + 6H2O(l ) + SO2( g )
Because a substance combines with oxygen, and because we see carbon
in that substance going to CO2, hydrogen going to H2O, and sulfur
going to SO2, we classify this reaction as a combustion reaction. The
compound C5H11SH is 3methyl1butanethiol, a component of the
spray produced by skunks.
exerCise 6.3 - Classification of Chemical Reactions
ObjeCtive 7
Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories: combination
reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and singledisplacement
reaction.
2Hg(l ) + O2( g)
a. 2HgO(s)
b. C12H22O11(s) + 12O2( g ) 12CO2( g ) + 11H2O(l )
c. B2O3(s) + 3Mg(s)
2B(s) + 3MgO(s)
d. C2H4( g ) + H2( g ) C2H6( g )
6.4 Voltaic Cells
Were people on the gowith laptop computers, portable drills, and electronic games
that kids can play in the car. To keep all of these tools and toys working, we need
batteries, and because the newer electronic devices require more power in smaller
packages, scientists are constantly searching for stronger and more efficient batteries.
The goal of this section is to help you understand how batteries work and to describe
some that may be familiar to you and some that may be new.
A battery is a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy using redox
reactions. To discover what this means and how batteries work, lets examine a simple
system that generates an electric current using the reaction between zinc metal and
copper(II) ions described in Figure 6.4. In this redox reaction, uncharged zinc atoms
are oxidized to zinc ions, and copper(II) ions are reduced to uncharged copper atoms.
Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) Zn2+(aq) + Cu(s)
oxidation: Zn(s) Zn2+(aq) + 2e
reduction: Cu2+(aq) + 2e
Cu(s)
The last section showed how this reaction takes place when zinc metal is added to
a solution of copper(II) sulfate. When a Cu2+ ion collides with the zinc metal, two
electrons are transferred from a zinc atom directly to the copper(II) ion.
6.4 Voltaic Cells
A clever arrangement of the reaction components allows us to harness this reaction to
produce electrical energy. The setup, shown in Figure 6.5, keeps the two halfreactions
separated, causing the electrons released in the oxidation half of the reaction to pass
through a wire connecting the two halves of the apparatus. The proper name for a
setup of this type is a voltaic cell. Strictly speaking, a battery is a series of voltaic cells
joined in such a way that they work together.
225
ObjeCtive 10
Figure 6.5
A Voltaic Cell
This diagram shows the key
components of a voltaic cell
composed of the Zn/Zn2+ and
Cu/Cu2+ half-cells.
e
e
Negative
electrode
(anode)
KNO3
Zn ()
Salt
Bridge (+)
SO42
Zn2+
Cu
Positive
electrode
(cathode)
Cu2+
NO3
Site of Oxidation
Zn
Zn2+ + 2e
Electrolyte
K+
SO42
Site of Reduction
Cu2+ + 2e
Cu
A voltaic cell, then, is composed of two separate halfcells. In
the case of the zinc and copper(II) redox reaction, the first halfcell
consists of a strip of zinc metal in a solution of zinc sulfate. The second
halfcell consists of a strip of copper metal in a solution of copper(II)
sulfate. In the Zn/Zn2+ halfcell, zinc atoms lose two electrons and
are converted to zinc ions. The two electrons pass through the wire to
the Cu/Cu2+ halfcell, where Cu2+ ions gain the two electrons to form
Messages were originally sent through
uncharged copper atoms. The zinc metal and copper metal strips are telegraph wires by voltaic cells composed of
called electrodes, the general name for electrical conductors placed Zn/Zn2+ and Cu/Cu2+ half-cells.
in halfcells of voltaic cells.
ObjeCtive 11
The electrode at which oxidation occurs in a voltaic cell is called the anode. Because
electrons are lost in oxidation, the anode is the source of electrons. For this reason, the
ObjeCtive 10
anode of a voltaic cell is designated the negative electrode. Because electrons are lost,
forming more positive (or less negative) species at the anode, the anode surroundings
tend to become more positive. Thus anions are attracted to the anode. In our voltaic
cell, Zn is oxidized to Zn2+ at the zinc electrode, so this electrode is the anode. The
solution around the zinc metal becomes positive due to excess Zn2+ ions, so anions are
attracted to the zinc electrode.
The cathode is the electrode in a voltaic cell at which reduction occurs. By convention,
ObjeCtive 10
the cathode is designated the positive electrode. Because electrons flow along the wire
226
Chapter 6
ObjeCtive 10
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
to the cathode, and because substances gain those electrons to become more negative
(or less positive), the cathode surroundings tend to become more negative. Thus cations
are attracted to the cathode. In our voltaic cell, Cu2+ ions are reduced to uncharged
copper atoms at the copper strip, so metallic copper is the cathode. Because cations are
removed from the solution there and anions are not, the solution around the copper
cathode tends to become negative and attracts cations.
The component of the voltaic cell through which ions are able to flow is called the
electrolyte. For our voltaic cell, the zinc sulfate solution is the electrolyte in the anode
halfcell, and the copper(II) sulfate solution is the electrolyte in the cathode halfcell.
As described above, the Zn/Zn2+ halfcell tends to become positive due to the
loss of electrons as uncharged zinc atoms are converted into Zn2+ ions, and the
Cu/Cu2+ halfcell tends to become negative due to the gain of electrons and the
conversion of Cu2+ ions into uncharged copper atoms. This charge imbalance would
block the flow of electrons and stop the redox reaction if something were not done to
balance the growing charges. One way to keep the charge balanced is to introduce a
device called a salt bridge.
One type of salt bridge is a tube connecting the two solutions and filled with an
unreactive ionic compound such as potassium nitrate in a semisolid support such as
gelatin or agar. For each negative charge lost at the anode due to the loss of an electron,
an anion, such as NO3, moves from the salt bridge into the solution to replace it. For
example, when one zinc atom oxidizes at the anode and loses two electrons to form
Zn2+, two nitrates enter the solution to keep the solution electrically neutral overall.
For each negative charge gained at the cathode due to the gain of an electron, a cation,
such as K+ ion, moves into the solution to keep the solution uncharged. For example,
each time a copper ion gains two electrons and forms an uncharged copper atom, two
potassium ions enter the solution to replace the Cu2+ lost.
Dry Cells
Although a voltaic cell of the kind described above, using zinc and a solution of copper
ions, was used in early telegraph systems, there are problems with this sort of cell.
The greatest problem is that the cell cannot be easily moved because the electrolyte
solutions are likely to spill. The Leclanch cell, or dry cell, was developed in the 1860s
to solve this problem. It contained a paste, or semisolid, electrolyte. The reactions in
the dry cell can be thought of as consisting of the following halfreactions (although
they are a bit more complicated than described here):
Anode oxidation:
Zn(s) Zn2+(aq) + 2e
Cathode reduction: 2MnO2(s) + 2NH4+(aq) + 2e
Mn2O3(s) + 2NH3(aq) + H2O(l )
Overall reaction:
Zn(s) + 2MnO2(s) + 2NH4+(aq)
Zn2+(aq) + Mn2O3(s) + 2NH3(aq) + H2O(l )
These inexpensive and reliable cells have served as the typical flashlight battery for
many years. Their outer wrap surrounds a zinc metal cylinder that acts as the anode
(Figure 6.6). Inside the zinc cylinder is a porous barrier that separates the zinc metal
6.4 Voltaic Cells
Figure 6.6
Leclanch (or Dry) Cell
+
Carbon Rod (cathode)
Porous Barrier
(Zinc ions, Zn2+,
pass through)
Paste with MnO2,
NH4Cl, and ZnCl2
Zinc (anode)
from a paste containing NH4Cl, ZnCl2, and MnO2. The porous barrier allows Zn2+
ions to pass through, but it keeps the MnO2 from coming into direct contact with the
zinc metal. In the center of the cell, a carbon rod that can conduct an electric current
acts as the cathode.
Electrolysis
Voltage, a measure of the strength of an electric current, represents the force that moves
electrons from the anode to the cathode in a voltaic cell. When a greater force (voltage)
is applied in the opposite direction, electrons can be pushed from what would normally
be the cathode toward the voltaic cells anode. This process is called electrolysis. In a
broader sense, electrolysis is the process by which a redox reaction is made to occur in
the nonspontaneous direction. For example, sodium metal reacts readily with chlorine
gas to form sodium chloride, but we do not expect sodium chloride, as it sits in our
saltshakers, to decompose into sodium metal and chlorine gas. We say the forward
reaction below is spontaneous, and the reverse reaction is nonspontaneous.
2Na(s) + Cl2( g ) 2NaCl(s)
Sodium metal and chlorine gas can, however, be formed from the electrolysis of salt,
in which an electric current passed is through the molten sodium chloride.
2NaCl(l )
Electric current
2Na(l ) + Cl2( g)
Electrolysis is used in industry to purify metals, such as copper and aluminum, and in
electroplating, the process used, for example, to deposit the chrome on the bumper of
a 1955 Chevy.
As you will see below, a similar process is used to refresh rechargeable batteries.
227
228
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Nickel-Cadmium Batteries
Leclanch cells are not rechargeable; once the reactants are depleted, the battery must
be discarded and replaced. Batteries that are not rechargeable are called primary
batteries. A rechargeable battery is called a secondary battery or a storage battery.
The nickelcadmium (NiCd) battery is a popular rechargeable battery that uses the
following redox reaction:
Cd(s) + 2OH(aq) Cd(OH)2(s) + 2e
Anode reaction:
Cathode reaction:
Net Reaction:
NiO(OH)(s) + H2O(l ) + e
Ni(OH)2(s) + OH(aq)
Cd(s) + 2NiO(OH)(s) + 2H2O(l )
Cd(OH)2(s) + 2Ni(OH)2(s)
To recharge a secondary battery, an opposing external voltage is applied that is
greater than the voltage of the cell, pushing the electrons in the opposite direction
from the way they move in the normal operation of the cell. In this process, the
original chemical reaction is reversed. Because the Cd(OH)2 and Ni(OH)2 produced
during the normal operation of the nickelcadmium battery are solids, they stay at the
electrodes where they are formed and are available to be converted back to the original
reactants.
Cd(s) + 2NiO(OH)(s) + 2H2O(l )
normal operation
when being charged
Cd(OH)2(s) + 2Ni(OH)2(s)
Leclanch cells and nickelcadmium batteries both have their drawbacks. One
problem with the Leclanch cell is that over time the zinc metal and the ammonium
ions react to corrode the anode, so dry cell batteries have a shorter shelf life than
other batteries do. Another problem is that Leclanch cells are not rechargeable.
Nickelcadmium batteries are rechargeable, but they are too bulky to be used for many
purposes. The manufacturers of electronic devices are constantly trying to make their
products smaller and more powerful. Thus they want batteries that are smaller, lighter,
and more powerful than dry cell and nickelcadmium batteries. They want batteries
with the highest possible energytomass ratio and energytovolume ratio, and dry
cells and NiCd batteries have very low ratios. To solve these and other problems, many
additional types of batteries have been developed, including the lithium battery (Table
7.3).
Extensive research is being done to develop new types of batteries to power electric
cars and trucks. See Special Topic 6.3 Zinc-Air Batteries for an example.
6.4 Voltaic Cells
229
Table 6.3
Common Voltaic Cells (Batteries)
Voltaic
Cell
Anode Reaction
Dry cell
Zn(s) Zn2+(aq) + 2e
Alkaline
battery
Zn(s) + 2OH(aq)
2MnO2(s) + H2O(l ) + 2e
ZnO(s) + H2O(l ) + 2e
Mn2O3(s) + 2OH(aq)
Nickel Cd(s) + 2OH(aq)
cadmium
Cd(OH)2(s) + 2e
battery
Cathode Reaction
2MnO2(s) + 2NH4+(aq) + 2e
Mn2O3(s) + 2NH3(aq) + H2O(l )
NiO(OH)(s) + H2O(l ) + e
Ni(OH)2(s) + OH(aq)
LeadAcid Pb(s) + HSO4(aq) + H2O(l )
PbO2(s) + HSO4(aq) + 3H3O+(aq) + 2e
+(aq) + 2e
battery
PbSO4(s) + H3O
PbSO4(s) + 5H2O(l )
One type LinC6 nLi+ + 6C + ne
of lithium
battery
SPECIAL TOPIC 6.3
CoO2 + nLi+ + ne LinCoO2
Pros
Cons
Inexpensive;
reliable
Short shelflife;
large and heavy;
not rechargeable
Longer lasting
More expensive
and slightly
than dry cells;
higher energy not rechargeable
density than dry
cells
Rechargeable;
Relatively low
lower price
energy density;
than other
less efficient
rechargeable
with repeated
batteries; long life
use
Rechargeable;
very reliable;
inexpensive;
durable
Very heavy,
yielding a very
low energy
density
Rechargeable;
reliable; very high
energy density
Expensive
Zinc-Air Batteries
One type of battery being considered for use in electric cars
is the zincair battery, in which zinc acts as the anode and air
provides the oxygen for the cathode reaction. This battery
is low in mass because of its use of oxygen as the cathode
reactant. The overall reaction is
2Zn(s) + O2( g ) 2ZnO(s)
Most of the batteries being considered for electric cars take
several hours to recharge, a major drawback in comparison
to the ease of refilling a gas tank. It is possible that the use
of zincair batteries will avoid this problem. The reactions
are not directly reversible in the zincair batteries, so the
materials would need to be removed to be recharged.
You could stop at your local zinc station, have the spent
electrolyte and zinc oxide particles quickly suctioned from
the cells and replaced with a slurry of fresh particles and
electrolyte, and be ready to go another 200300 miles. The
zinc oxide would be taken to a central plant where it would
be converted back to zinc metal and returned to the stations.
Vans powered by zincair batteries are already being used
by the European postal services. In 1997, one of them made
a 152mile trip from Chambria, France, over the Alps to
Turin, Italy. It not only succeeded in crossing the 6874ft
peak but also averaged 68mph on the highway.
230
Chapter 6
Chapter
Glossary
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Oxidation Any chemical change in which at least one element loses electrons, either
completely or partially.
Reduction Any chemical change in which at least one element gains electrons, either
completely or partially.
Oxidation-reduction reactions The chemical reactions in which there is a complete
or partial transfer of electrons, resulting in oxidation and reduction. These reactions
are also called redox reactions.
Half-reactions Separate oxidation and reduction reaction equations in which electrons
are shown as a reactant or product.
Reducing agent A substance that loses electrons, making it possible for another
substance to gain electrons and be reduced.
Oxidizing agent A substance that gains electrons, making it possible for another
substance to lose electrons and be oxidized.
Oxidation number A tool for keeping track of the flow of electrons in redox reactions
(also called oxidation state).
Combination or synthesis reaction The joining of two or more elements or compounds
into one product.
Decomposition reaction The conversion of one compound into two or more simpler
substances.
Combustion reaction Rapid oxidation accompanied by heat and usually light.
Single-displacement reaction Chemical change in which atoms of one element
displace (or replace) atoms of another element in a compound.
Voltaic cell A system in which two halfreactions for a redox reaction are separated,
allowing the electrons transferred in the reaction to be passed between them
through a wire.
Battery A device that has two or more voltaic cells connected together. The term is
also used to describe any device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy
using redox reactions.
Electrodes The electrical conductors placed in the halfcells of a voltaic cell.
Anode The electrode at which oxidation occurs in a voltaic cell. It is the source of
electrons and is the negative electrode.
Cathode The electrode at which reduction occurs in a voltaic cell. It is the positive
electrode.
Salt bridge A device used to keep the charges in a voltaic cell balanced.
Electrolyte The portion of a voltaic cell that allows ions to flow.
Primary battery A battery that is not rechargeable.
Secondary battery or storage battery A rechargeable battery.
Electrolysis The process by which a redox reaction is pushed in the nonspontaneous
direction or the process of applying an external voltage to a voltaic cell, causing
electrons to move from what would normally be the cells cathode toward its
anode.
You can test yourself on the glossary terms at the textbooks Web site.
Chapter Objectives
The goal of this chapter is to teach you to do the following.
1. Define all of the terms in the Chapter Glossary.
Section 6.1 An Introduction to Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
2. Describe the difference between the redox reactions that form binary ionic
compounds, such as zinc oxide, from their elements and the similar redox
reactions that form molecular compounds, such as nitrogen monoxide, from their
elements. (Your description should include the degree to which the electrons are
transferred in the reactions.)
Section 6.2 Oxidation Numbers
3. Given a formula for a substance, determine the oxidation number (or oxidation
state) for each atom in the formula.
4. Given an equation for a chemical reaction, identify whether the equation
represents a redox reaction or not.
5. Given an equation for a redox reaction, identify the substance that is oxidized
and the substance that is reduced.
6. Given an equation for a redox reaction, identify the substance that is the reducing
agent and the substance that is the oxidizing agent.
Section 6.3 Types of Reactions
7. Given an equation for a reaction, identify whether it represents a
combination reaction, a decomposition reaction, a combustion reaction, or a
singledisplacement reaction.
8. Given the formula for a substance that contains one or more of the elements
carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur, write the balanced equation for the
complete combustion of the substance.
9. Describe the reaction that takes place between an uncharged metal, like zinc,
and a cation, like the copper(II) ion, in a water solution. Your description should
include the nature of the particles in the system before the reaction takes place,
the nature of the reaction itself, and the nature of the particles in the system
after the reaction. Your description should also include the equations for the
halfreactions and the net ionic equation for the overall reaction.
Section 6.4 Voltaic Cells
10. Describe how a voltaic cell can be made using the redox reaction between a
metal, such as zinc, and an ionic substance containing a metallic ion, such as
the copper(II) ion. Your description should include a sketch that shows the key
components of the two halfcells, labels to indicate which electrode is the cathode
and which is the anode, signs to indicate which electrode is negative and which
is positive, arrows to show the direction of movement of the electrons in the wire
between the electrodes, and arrows to show the direction of movement of the
ions in the system. (See Figure 6.5.)
11. Given a description of a voltaic cell, including the nature of the halfreactions,
identify which electrode is the cathode and which is the anode.
231
Chapter
Objectives
232
Chapter 6
Review
Questions
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
1. For each of the following ionic formulas, write the formula for the cation and the
formula for the anion.
a. FeBr3
c. AgCl
b. Co3(PO4)2
d. (NH4)2SO4
2. Classify each of the following formulas as representing a binary ionic compound,
an ionic compound with polyatomic ions, or a molecular compound.
a. CF4
e. H2S
b. Pb(C2H3O2)2
f. ClF
c. CoCl2
g. Cr(OH)3
d. C2H5OH
h. H3PO4
3. Balance the following equations. (C8H18 is a component of gasoline, and P2S5 is
used to make the insecticides parathion and malathion.)
a. C8H18(l ) + O2( g ) CO2( g ) + H2O(l )
b. P4(s) + S8(s) P2S5(s)
Key Ideas
Complete the following statements by writing one of these words or phrases in each
blank.
carbon dioxide
change
decreases
flow of electrons
gains
halfreactions
heat
increases
light
loses
one
oxidation
oxidized
oxidizing
oxidizing agent
partial
pure element
rarely
reduced
reducing
reducing agent
reduction
sulfur dioxide
transferred
two or more
water
4. According to the modern convention, any chemical change in which an element
_____________ electrons is called an oxidation.
5. According to the modern definition, any chemical change in which an element
_____________ electrons is called a reduction.
Key Ideas
6. Electrons are _____________ found unattached to atoms. Thus, for one element
or compound to lose electrons and be _____________, another element or
compound must be there to gain the electrons and be _____________. In other
words, _____________ (loss of electrons) must be accompanied by
_____________ (gain of electrons).
7. Reactions in which electrons are _____________, resulting in oxidation and
reduction, are called oxidationreduction reactions.
8. The separate oxidation and reduction equations are called _____________.
9. A(n) _____________ is a substance that loses electrons, making it possible for
another substance to gain electrons and be reduced.
10. A(n) _____________ is a substance that gains electrons, making it possible for
another substance to lose electrons and be oxidized.
11. Oxidation is defined as the complete or _____________ loss of electrons,
reduction as the complete or partial gain of electrons.
12. Just think of oxidation numbers as tools for keeping track of the _____________
in redox reactions.
13. If any element undergoes a(n) _____________ of oxidation number in the
course of a reaction, the reaction is a redox reaction. If an elements oxidation
number _____________ in a reaction, that element is oxidized. If an elements
oxidation number _____________ in a reaction, that element is reduced. The
reactant containing the element that is oxidized is the _____________ agent.
The reactant containing the element that is reduced is the _____________ agent.
14. In combination reactions, _____________ elements or compounds combine to
form one compound.
15. In decomposition reactions, _____________ compound is converted into two or
more simpler substances.
16. In a combustion reaction, oxidation is very rapid and is accompanied by
_____________ and usually _____________.
17. When any substance that contains carbon is combusted (or burned) completely,
the carbon forms _____________.
18. When a substance that contains hydrogen is burned completely, the hydrogen
forms _____________.
19. When any substance that contains sulfur burns completely, the sulfur forms
_____________.
20. In singledisplacement reactions, atoms of one element in a compound are
displaced (or replaced) by atoms from a(n) _____________.
233
234
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Complete the following statements by writing one of these words or phrases in each
blank.
chemical energy
electrical conductors
electrical energy
electrolysis
flow
force
halfreactions
not rechargeable
oxidation
positive
positive electrode
rechargeable
reduction
voltaic cells
21. Strictly speaking, a battery is a series of _____________ joined in such a way
that they work together. A battery can also be described as a device that converts
_____________ into _____________ using redox reactions.
22. A voltaic cell keeps two oxidationreduction _____________ separated, causing
the electrons released in the oxidation half of the reaction to pass through a wire
connecting the two halves of the apparatus.
23. Metal strips in voltaic cells are called electrodes, which is the general name for
_____________ placed in halfcells of voltaic cells.
24. The electrode at which _____________ occurs in a voltaic cell is called the
anode. Because electrons are lost, forming more positive (or less negative) species
at the anode, the anode surroundings tend to become more _____________.
25. The cathode is the electrode in a voltaic cell at which _____________ occurs.
By convention, the cathode is designated the _____________. Because electrons
flow along the wire to the cathode, and because substances gain those electrons
to become more negative (or less positive), the cathode surroundings tend to
become more negative. Thus cations are attracted to the cathode.
26. The component of the voltaic cell through which ions are able to
_____________ is called the electrolyte.
27. Voltage, a measure of the strength of an electric current, represents the
_____________ that moves electrons from the anode to the cathode in a voltaic
cell. When a greater voltage is applied in the opposite direction, electrons can be
pushed from what would normally be the cathode toward the voltaic cells anode.
This process is called _____________.
28. Batteries that are _____________ are called primary batteries. A(n)
_____________ battery is called a secondary battery or a storage battery.
Chapter
Problems
ObjeCtive 3
Section 6.1 An Introduction to Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
29. Describe the difference between the redox reactions that form binary ionic
compounds, such as zinc oxide, from their elements and the similar redox
reactions that form molecular compounds, such as nitrogen monoxide, from their
elements.
30. Are the electrons in the following redox reactions transferred completely from
the atoms of one element to the atoms of another or are they only partially
transferred?
a. 4Al(s) + 3O2( g ) 2Al2O3(s)
b. C(s) + O2( g ) CO2( g )
Chapter Problems
31. Are the electrons in the following redox reactions transferred completely from
the atoms of one element to the atoms of another or are they only partially
transferred?
a. 2K(s) + F2( g ) 2KF(s)
b. 2H2( g ) + O2( g ) 2H2O(l )
32. Are the electrons in the following redox reactions transferred completely from
the atoms of one element to the atoms of another or are they only partially
transferred?
a. S8(s) + 8O2( g ) 8SO2( g )
b. P4(s) + 6Cl2( g ) 4PCl3(l )
33. Are the electrons in the following redox reactions transferred completely from
the atoms of one element to the atoms of another or are they only partially
transferred?
a. Ca(s) + Cl2( g ) CaCl2(s)
b. 4Cu(s) + O2( g ) 2Cu2O(s)
34. Aluminum bromide, AlBr3, which is used to add bromine atoms to organic
compounds, can be made by passing gaseous bromine over hot aluminum.
Which of the following halfreactions for this oxidationreduction reaction
describes the oxidation, and which one describes the reduction?
2Al 2Al3+ + 6e
3Br2 + 6e 6Br
35. Iodine, I2, has many uses, including the production of dyes, antiseptics,
photographic film, pharmaceuticals, and medicinal soaps. It forms when chlorine,
Cl2, reacts with iodide ions in a sodium iodide solution. Which of the following
halfreactions for this oxidationreduction reaction describes the oxidation, and
which one describes the reduction?
Cl2 + 2e 2Cl
2I I2 + 2e
Section 6.2 Oxidation Numbers
36. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. S8
c. Na2S
2
b. S
d. FeS
37. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. P4
d. P2O3
b. PF3
e. H3PO4
c. PH3
38. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. Sc2O3
c. N2
b. RbH
d. NH3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
235
236
Chapter 6
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
39. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. N3
c. K3N
b. N2O5
40. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. ClF3
c. H2SO4
b. H2O2
41. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. Co3N2
c. NaH
b. Na
42. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. HPO42
c. N2O42
b. NiSO4
d. Mn3(PO4)2
43. Determine the oxidation number for the atoms of each element in the following
formulas.
a. HSO3
c. Cu3(PO4)2
b. Cu(NO3)2
44. The following partial reactions represent various means by which bacteria obtain
energy. Determine the oxidation number for each atom other than oxygen and
hydrogen atoms, and decide whether the halfreaction represents oxidation or
reduction. None of the oxygen or hydrogen atoms are oxidized or reduced.
2Fe2+ Fe2O3 + energy
2NH3 2NO2 + 3H2O + energy
2NO2 + O2 2NO3 + energy
8H2S S8 + 8H2O + energy
S8 + 8H2O SO42 + 16H+ + energy
45. About 47% of the hydrochloric acid produced in the U.S. is used for cleaning
metallic surfaces. Hydrogen chloride, HCl, which is dissolved in water to make
the acid, is formed in the reaction of chlorine gas and hydrogen gas, displayed
below. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation, and
decide whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify
which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
Cl2( g ) + H2( g ) 2HCl( g )
46. The following equation describes the reaction that produces hydrofluoric acid,
which is used to make chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Determine the oxidation
number for each atom in the equation, and decide whether the reaction is a
redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which substance is oxidized, which
substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
CaF2 + H2SO4 2HF + CaSO4
Chapter Problems
47. Water and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers should not be used on magnesium
fires because both substances react with magnesium and generate enough heat
to intensify the fire. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
equations that describe these reactions (displayed below), and decide whether
each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which substance
is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing
agent.
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
Mg(s) + 2H2O(l ) Mg(OH)2(aq) + H2( g ) + heat
2Mg(s) + CO2( g ) 2MgO(s) + C(s) + heat
48. Potassium nitrate is used in the production of fireworks, explosives, and matches.
It is also used in curing foods and to modify the burning properties of tobacco.
The reaction for the industrial production of KNO3 is summarized below.
Determine the oxidation number for each atom, and decide whether the reaction
is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which substance is oxidized,
which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
4KCl + 4HNO3 + O2
4KNO3 + 2Cl2 + 2H2O
49. Formaldehyde, CH2O, which is used in embalming fluids, is made from
methanol in the reaction described below. Determine the oxidation number for
each atom in this equation, and decide whether the reaction is a redox reaction
or not. If it is redox, identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is
reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
2CH3OH + O2
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
2CH2O + 2H2O
50. The weak acid hydrofluoric acid, HF(aq), is used to frost light bulbs. It reacts
with the silicon dioxide in glass on the inside of light bulbs to form a white
substance, H2SiF6, that deposits on the glass and reduces the glare from the bulb.
The same reaction is run on a larger scale to produce H2SiF6 used for fluoridating
drinking water. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the reaction,
and decide whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify
which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
6HF + SiO2
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
H2SiF6 + 2H2O
51. For each of the following equations, determine the oxidation number for each
atom in the equation and identify whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not.
If the reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
a. Co(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) Co(NO3)2(aq) + 2Ag(s)
b. V2O5(s) + 5Ca(l )
2V(l ) + 5CaO(s)
c. CaCO3(aq) + SiO2(s) CaSiO3(s) + CO2( g )
d. 2NaH(s)
2Na(s) + H2( g )
e. 5As4O6(s) + 8KMnO4(aq) + 18H2O(l ) + 52KCl(aq)
20K3AsO4(aq) + 8MnCl2(aq) + 36HCl(aq)
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
237
238
Chapter 6
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
52. For each of the following equations, determine the oxidation number for each
atom in the equation and identify whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not.
If the reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
a. 2Na(s) + 2H2O(l ) 2NaOH(aq) + H2( g )
b. HCl(aq) + NH3(aq) NH4Cl(aq)
c. 2Cr(s) + 3CuSO4(aq) Cr2(SO4)3(aq) + 3Cu(s)
d. 3H2SO3(aq) + 2HNO3(aq) 2NO( g ) + H2O(l ) + 3H2SO4(aq)
e. CaO(s) + H2O(l ) Ca2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
53. The following equations summarize the steps in the process used to make most
of the sulfuric acid produced in the United States. Determine the oxidation
number for each atom in each of the following equations, and identify whether
each reaction is a redox reaction or not. For the redox reactions, identify what is
oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
S8 + O2
SO2 + O2
SO2
SO3
SO3 + H2O H2SO4
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
54. Because of its superior hiding ability, titanium dioxide has been the best selling
white pigment since 1939. In 1990, there were 2.16 billion pounds of it sold in
the United States for a variety of purposes, including surface coatings (paint),
plastics, and paper. The following equations show how impure TiO2 is purified.
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in them and identify whether
each reaction is a redox reaction or not. For the redox reactions, identify what is
oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
3TiO2 + 4C + 6Cl2
TiCl4 + O2
3TiCl4 + 2CO + 2CO2
TiO2 + 2Cl2
Section 6.3 Types of Redox Reactions
ObjeCtive 7
55. Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories:
combination reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and
singledisplacement reaction.
a. 2NaH(s) 2Na(s) + H2( g )
b. 2KI(aq) + Cl2( g ) 2KCl(aq) + I2(s)
c. 2C2H5SH(l ) + 9O2( g ) 4CO2( g ) + 6H2O(l ) + 2SO2( g )
d. H2(g) + CuO(s)
Cu(s) + H2O(l )
e. P4(s) + 5O2( g ) P4O10(s)
Chapter Problems
56. Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories:
ObjeCtive 7
combination reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and
singledisplacement reaction.
a. Fe2(CO3)2(s)
Fe2O3(s) + 2CO2( g)
b. 2C6H11OH(l ) + 17O2( g ) 12CO2( g ) + 12H2O(l )
c. P4O10(s) + 6H2O(l ) 4H3PO4(aq)
d. 2C(s) + MnO2(s)
e. 2NaClO3(s)
Mn(s) + 2CO( g)
2NaCl(s) + 3O2( g)
57. Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories:
ObjeCtive 7
combination reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and
singledisplacement reaction.
a. 4B(s) + 3O2( g ) 2B2O3(s)
b. (C2H5)2O(l ) + 6O2( g ) 4CO2( g ) + 5H2O(l )
c. 2Cr2O3(s) + 3Si(s)
4Cr(s) + 3SiO2(s)
d. C6H11SH(l ) + 10O2( g ) 6CO2( g ) + 6H2O(l ) + SO2( g )
e. 2NaHCO3(s) Na2CO3(s) + H2O(l ) + CO2( g )
58. Classify each of these reactions with respect to the following categories:
ObjeCtive 7
combination reaction, decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and
singledisplacement reaction.
a. 3H2( g ) + WO3(s)
W(s) + 3H2O(l )
b. 2I4O9(s) 2I2O6(s) + 2I2(s) + 3O2( g )
c. 2NaNO3(s)
2NaNO2(s) + O2( g)
d. Cl2( g ) + 2KBr(aq) 2KCl(aq) + Br2(l )
59. Write balanced equations for the complete combustion of each of the following
ObjeCtive 8
substances.
a. C3H8( g )
b. C4H9OH(l )
c. CH3COSH(l )
60. Write balanced equations for the complete combustion of each of the following
substances.
a. C13H28(l )
b. C12H22O11(s)
c. C2H5SO3H(l )
ObjeCtive 8
239
240
Chapter 6
ObjeCtive 9
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
61. The following pairs react in singledisplacement reactions that are similar to the
reaction between uncharged zinc metal and the copper(II) ions in a copper(II)
sulfate solution. Describe the changes in these reactions, including the nature
of the particles in the system before the reaction takes place, the nature of the
reaction itself, and the nature of the particles in the system after the reaction.
Your description should also include the equations for the halfreactions and the
net ionic equation for the overall reaction.
a. Magnesium metal and nickel(II) nitrate, Ni(NO3)2(aq)
b. Calcium metal and cobalt(II) chloride, CoCl2(aq)
Section 6.4 Voltaic Cells
ObjeCtive 10
ObjeCtive 11
62. We know that the following reaction can be used to generate an electric current
in a voltaic cell.
Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) Cu(s) + ZnSO4(aq)
Sketch similar voltaic cells made from each of the reactions presented below,
showing the key components of the two halfcells and indicating the cathode
electrode and the anode electrode, the negative and positive electrodes, the
direction of movement of the electrons in the wire between the electrodes, and
the direction of movement of the ions in the system. Show a salt bridge in each
sketch, and show the movement of ions out of the salt bridge.
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
a. Mn(s) + Pb(NO3)2(aq) Pb(s) + Mn(NO3)2(aq)
b. Mg(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) 2Ag(s) + Mg(NO3)2(aq)
63. The following equation summarizes the chemical changes that take place in a
typical dry cell.
Zn(s) + 2MnO2(s) + 2NH4+(aq)
Zn2+(aq) + Mn2O3(s) + 2NH3(aq) + H2O(l )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation, and identify
what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
64. The following equation summarizes the chemical changes that take place in a
nickelcadmium battery. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
equation, and identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
Cd(s) + 2NiO(OH)(s) + 2H2O(l ) Cd(OH)2(s) + 2Ni(OH)2(s)
ObjeCtive 3
ObjeCtive 4
ObjeCtive 5
ObjeCtive 6
65. The following equation summarizes the chemical changes that take place in
a leadacid battery. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
equation, and identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 2HSO4(aq) + 2H3O+(aq) 2PbSO4(s) + 4H2O(l )
Chapter Problems
Additional Problems
66. Nitric acid, which is used to produce fertilizers and explosives, is made in the
following three steps. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
three equations and identify whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a
reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized and what is reduced.
4NH3 + 5O2
2NO + O2
4NO + 6H2O
2NO2
3NO2 + H2O
2HNO3 + NO
67. Sodium hydrogen carbonate, NaHCO3, best known as the active ingredient in
baking soda, is used in several ways in food preparation. It is also added to animal
feeds and used to make soaps and detergents. Baking soda can also be used to
put out small fires on your stovetop. The heat of the flames causes the NaHCO3
to decompose to form carbon dioxide, which displaces the air above the flames
depriving the fire of the oxygen necessary for combustion. The equation for the
reaction is below.
2NaHCO3(s)
Na2CO3(s) + H2O(l ) + CO2( g )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is redox, identify
what is oxidized and what is reduced.
68. Swimming pools can be chlorinated by adding either calcium hypochlorite,
Ca(OCl)2, or sodium hypochlorite, NaOCl. The active component is the
hypochlorite ion, OCl. Because the rate of the following reaction is increased
by ultraviolet radiation in sunlight, it is best to chlorinate pools in the evening to
avoid the hypochlorite ions decomposition.
OCl(aq) Cl(aq) + O2( g )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is redox, identify
what is oxidized and what is reduced.
69. In the past, mercury batteries were commonly used to power electronic watches
and small appliances. The overall reaction for this type of battery is
HgO(s) + Zn(s) ZnO(s) + Hg(l )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and decide
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which
substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the
reducing agent.
70. Silver batteries have been used to run heart pacemakers and hearing aids. The
overall reaction for this type of battery is
Ag2O(s) + Zn(s) ZnO(s) + 2Ag(s)
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and decide
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which
substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the
reducing agent.
241
242
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
71. Mn3(PO4)2, which is used to make corrosion resistant coatings on steel,
aluminum, and other metals, is made from the reaction of Mn(OH)2 with
H3PO4.
3Mn(OH)2(s) + 2H3PO4(aq) Mn3(PO4)2(s) + 6H2O(l )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify what is
oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
72. One of the ways that plants generate oxygen is represented by the following
reaction.
2Mn4+ + 2H2O
2Mn2+ + 4H+ + O2
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and decide
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If it is redox, identify which
substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the
reducing agent.
73. The noble gases in group 18 on the periodic table used to be called the inert gases
because they were thought to be incapable of forming compounds. Their name
has been changed to noble gases because although they resist combining with
the more common elements to their left on the periodic table, they do mingle
with them on rare occasions. The following equations describe reactions that
form xenon compounds. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
reactions, and identify each reaction as redox or not. If it is redox, identify which
substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and the
reducing agent.
Xe + 3F2
XeF6
XeF6 + H2O
XeOF4 + 2HF
XeF6 + OPF3
XeOF4 + PF5
74. Sometimes one of the elements in a reactant appears in more than one product
of a reaction and has in one product, a higher oxidation number than before
the reaction and in the other product, a lower oxidation number than before
the reaction. In this way, the same element is both oxidized and reduced, and
the same compound is both the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent. This
process is called disproportionation. For example, iodine monofluoride, IF,
disproportionates into iodine and iodine pentafluoride in the following reaction:
5IF 2I2 + IF5
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in this equation and show that
iodine is both oxidized and reduced and that iodine monofluoride is both the
oxidizing agent and the reducing agent.
Chapter Problems
75. Sodium perbromate is an oxidizing agent that can be made in the two ways
represented by the equations below. The first equation shows the way it was made
in the past, and the second equation represents the technique used today.
NaBrO3 + XeF2 + H2O
NaBrO4 + 2HF + Xe
NaBrO3 + F2 + 2NaOH NaBrO4 + 2NaF + H2O
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in each of these equations, and
decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is a redox
reaction, identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the
oxidizing agent, and the reducing agent.
76. Calcium hydrogen sulfite, Ca(HSO3)2, which is used as a paper pulp preservative
and as a disinfectant, is made by reacting sulfur dioxide with calcium hydroxide.
2SO2 + Ca(OH)2
Ca(HSO3)2
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and decide
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is a redox reaction,
identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
77. The following equations represent reactions that involve only halogen atoms.
Iodine pentafluoride, IF5, is used to add fluorine atoms to other compounds,
bromine pentafluoride, BrF5, is an oxidizing agent in liquid rocket propellants,
and chlorine trifluoride, ClF3, is used to reprocess nuclear reactor fuels.
IF( g ) + 2F2( g ) IF5
BrF( g ) + 2F2( g ) BrF5( g )
Cl2( g ) + 3F2( g ) 2ClF3( g )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in these equations, and decide
whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is a redox reaction,
identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
78. The water solution of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, used as an antiseptic (3%)
and bleach (6%) are stored in dark plastic bottles because the reaction below is
accelerated by the metal ions found in glass and by light.
2H2O2(aq) 2H2O(l ) + O2( g )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is redox, identify
what is oxidized and what is reduced.
79. Sodium sulfate, which is used to make detergents and glass, is formed in the
following reaction.
4NaCl + 2SO2 + 2H2O + O2
2Na2SO4 + 4HCl
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and decide
whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is a redox reaction,
identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
243
244
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
80. Hydrogen gas can be made in two steps:
CH4( g ) + H2O( g ) CO( g ) + 3H2( g )
CO( g ) + H2O( g ) CO2( g ) + H2( g )
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in these equations and decide
whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is redox, identify
which substance is oxidized and which substance is reduced. (You do not need to
identify the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent.)
81. Elemental sulfur is produced by the chemical industry from naturally occurring
hydrogen sulfide in the following steps.
2H2S + 3O2
2SO2 + 2H2O
SO2 + 2H2S
3S + 2H2O
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in these equations and decide
whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is a redox reaction,
identify which substance is oxidized, which substance is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
82. Sodium chlorate, NaClO3, which is used to bleach paper, is made in the
following reactions. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the
equations and identify whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a
reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized and what is reduced.
Cl2 + 2NaOH NaOCl + NaCl + H2O
3NaOCl NaClO3 + 2NaCl
83. Leaded gasoline, originally developed to decrease pollution, is now banned
because the lead(II) bromide, PbBr2, emitted when it burns decomposes in the
atmosphere into two serious pollutants, lead and bromine. The equation for this
reaction is below. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation
and identify whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is
redox, identify what is oxidized and what is reduced.
PbBr2
sunlight
Pb + Br2
84. When leaded gasoline was banned, there was a rush to find safer ways to reduce
emissions of unburned hydrocarbons from gasoline engines. One alternative
is to add methyl tbutyl ether (MTBE). In 1990, about 25% of the methanol,
CH3OH, produced by the U.S. chemical industry was used to make methyl
tbutyl ether. The equations below show the steps used to make methanol.
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reactions are redox reactions or not. For each redox reaction, identify
what is oxidized and what is reduced.
3CH4 + 2H2O + CO2
CO + 2H2
4CO + 8H2
CH3OH
Chapter Problems
85. When the calcium carbonate, CaCO3, in limestone is heated to a high
temperature, it decomposes into calcium oxide (called lime or quick lime) and
carbon dioxide. Lime was used by the early Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians to
make cement and is used today to make over 150 different chemicals. In another
reaction, calcium oxide and water form calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2 (called
slaked lime), used to remove the sulfur dioxide from smoke stacks above power
plants burning highsulfur coal. The equations for all these reactions are below.
Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the equation and identify
whether the reactions are redox reaction or not. For each redox reaction, identify
what is oxidized and what is reduced.
CaCO3
CaO + CO2
CaO + H2O
Ca(OH)2
SO2 + H2O
H2SO3
Ca(OH)2 + H2SO3
CaSO3 + 2H2O
86. Potassium hydroxide, which is used to make fertilizers and soaps, is produced by
running an electric current through a potassium chloride solution. The equation
for this reaction is below. Is this a redox reaction? What is oxidized, and what is
reduced?
2KCl(aq) + 2H2O(l ) 2KOH(aq) + H2( g ) + Cl2( g )
87. The space shuttles solid rocket boosters get their thrust from the reaction of
aluminum metal with ammonium perchlorate, NH4ClO4, which generates a lot
of gas and heat. The billowy white smoke is due to the formation of very finely
divided solid aluminum oxide. One of the reactions that takes place is
10Al(s) + 6NH4ClO4(s)
5Al2O3(s) + 6HCl( g ) + 3N2( g ) + 9H2O( g )
Is this a redox reaction? What is oxidized, and what is reduced?
88. For each of the following equations, determine the oxidation number for each
atom in the equation and identify whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not.
If the reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
a. 2HNO3(aq) + 3H2S(aq) 2NO( g ) + 3S(s) + 4H2O(l )
b. 3CuSO4(aq) + 2Na3PO4(aq) Cu3(PO4)2(s) + 3Na2SO4(aq)
89. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the following equations and
decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is redox,
identify which substance is oxidized, which is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
a. K2Cr2O7(aq) + 14HCl(aq)
2KCl(aq) + 2CrCl3(aq) + 7H2O(l ) + 3Cl2( g )
b. Ca(s) + 2H2O(l ) Ca(OH)2(s) + H2( g )
245
246
Chapter 6
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
90. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the following equations and
decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If the reaction is redox,
identify which substance is oxidized, which is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
a. 2Ag2CrO4(s) + 4HNO3(aq)
4AgNO3(aq) + H2Cr2O7(aq) + H2O(l )
(aq) + 3IO (aq) + H O(l )
b. 2MnO4
3
2
2MnO2(s) + 3IO4(aq) + 2OH(aq)
91. For each of the following equations, determine the oxidation number for each
atom in the equation and identify whether the reaction is a redox reaction or not.
If the reaction is redox, identify what is oxidized, what is reduced, the oxidizing
agent, and the reducing agent.
a. Ca(s) + F2( g ) CaF2(s)
b. 2Al(s) + 3H2O( g ) Al2O3(s) + 3H2( g )
92. Determine the oxidation number for each atom in the following equations and
decide whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not. If a reaction is redox,
identify which substance is oxidized, which is reduced, the oxidizing agent, and
the reducing agent.
a. Cr2O72(aq) + 6Cl(aq) + 14H+(aq) 2Cr3+(aq) + 3Cl2( g ) + 7H2O(l )
b. 5H2C2O4(aq) + 2KMnO4(aq) + 3H2SO4(aq)
10CO2( g ) + 2MnSO4(aq) + 8H2O(l ) + K2SO4(aq)
93. The following equations represent reactions used by the U.S. chemical industry.
Classify each with respect to the following categories: combination reaction,
decomposition reaction, and singledisplacement reaction.
a. P4 + 5O2 + 6H2O 4H3PO4
b. TiCl4 + O2 TiO2 + 2Cl2
c. CH3CH3( g)
CH2CH2( g) + H2( g)
94. The following equations represent reactions used by the U.S. chemical industry.
Classify each with respect to the following categories: combination reaction,
decomposition reaction, combustion reaction, and singledisplacement reaction.
a. 2HF + SiF4 H2SiF6
b. 2H2S + 3O2 2SO2 + 2H2O
c. CH3OH
CH2O + H2
95. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction of carbon dioxide gas and
hydrogen gas to form carbon solid and water vapor.
96. Phosphorus pentachloride, which is used to add chlorine atoms to other
substances, can be made from the reaction of phosphorus trichloride and
chlorine. The phosphorus pentachloride is the only product. Write a balance
equation, without including states, for this redox reaction.
Chapter Problems
97. Titanium metal is used to make metal alloys for aircraft, missiles, and artificial
hip joints. It is formed in the reaction of titanium(IV) chloride with magnesium
metal. The other product is magnesium chloride. Write a balanced equation,
without including states, for this redox reaction.
98. Dichlorine monoxide, which is used to add chlorine atoms to other substances,
is made from mercury(II) oxide and chlorine. The products are dichlorine
monoxide and mercury. Write a balanced equation, without including states, for
this redox reaction.
99. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction of solid potassium with liquid
water to form aqueous potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
100. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction of aqueous chlorine with
aqueous potassium iodide to form aqueous potassium chloride and solid
iodine.
101. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction of calcium metal and bromine
liquid to form solid calcium bromide.
102. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction of solid copper(II) sulfide
with oxygen gas to form solid copper(II) oxide and sulfur dioxide gas.
103. Magnesium chloride is used to make disinfectants, fire extinguishers, paper,
and floor sweeping compounds. It is made from the redox reaction of
hydrochloric acid with solid magnesium hydroxide. Write a balanced equation
for this reaction, which yields aqueous magnesium chloride and liquid water.
104. Write a balanced equation for the redox reaction at room temperature of
chromium metal with hydrochloric acid to form aqueous chromium(III)
chloride and hydrogen gas.
Discussion Question
105. What makes one battery better than another? Find a reference book that
tells you about the properties of the elements. Why do you think lithium
batteries are superior to batteries that use lead? What other elements might be
considered for new batteries?
247