In the reaction 2Fe2O3 + 3C → 4Fe + 3CO2, what is being oxidized?
Correct Answer: Carbon (C)
- Step 1: Identify the reactants in the reaction, which are 2Fe2O3 and 3C.
- Step 2: Determine the oxidation states of the elements in the reactants and products.
- Step 3: In Fe2O3, iron (Fe) has an oxidation state of +3, and oxygen (O) has an oxidation state of -2.
- Step 4: In carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon (C) has an oxidation state of +4, and oxygen (O) remains at -2.
- Step 5: Compare the oxidation states of carbon before and after the reaction. Carbon starts at 0 in elemental form (C) and goes to +4 in CO2.
- Step 6: Since the oxidation state of carbon increases from 0 to +4, carbon is being oxidized.
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