Radox Reactions and Oxidation

Question

Co2+ + FeCo + Fe2

In the above redox reaction, use oxidation numbers to identify the element oxidized, the element reduced, the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent.

name of the element oxidized:

fill in the blank 1

name of the element reduced:

fill in the blank 2

formula of the oxidizing agent:

formula of the reducing agent:

Answer 1

Loss of electrons (by a species) is defined as oxidation & the gain of electrons, reduction. The species undergoing oxidation is the reducing agent, and vice versa. Therefore, the Fe --> Fe²⁺ having "lost" 2 electrons, is undergoing oxidation & the Fe is the reducing agent. The Co²⁺ --> Co has gained electrons. It is therefore reduced & is the oxidizing agent.