In a redox reaction, if the oxidation state of an element decreases, what has oc

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Question: In a redox reaction, if the oxidation state of an element decreases, what has occurred? (2021)

Options:

Correct Answer: Reduction

Exam Year: 2021

Solution:

A decrease in oxidation state indicates that the element has gained electrons, which is defined as reduction.

In a redox reaction, if the oxidation state of an element decreases, what has occurred? (2021)

In a redox reaction, if the oxidation state of an element decreases, what has occurred? (2021)

Step 1: Understand what oxidation state means. It is a number that represents the total number of electrons an atom either gains or loses to form a chemical bond.
Step 2: Recognize that a decrease in oxidation state means the atom has lost positive charge or gained negative charge.
Step 3: Remember that gaining electrons is called reduction. When an atom gains electrons, its oxidation state decreases.
Step 4: Conclude that if the oxidation state of an element decreases in a redox reaction, it has undergone reduction.

Redox Reactions – In redox reactions, oxidation refers to the loss of electrons, while reduction refers to the gain of electrons, which is indicated by a decrease in oxidation state.
Oxidation States – Understanding how to determine oxidation states is crucial for identifying oxidation and reduction processes in chemical reactions.