Discover answers to your most pressing questions at Westonci.ca, the ultimate Q&A platform that connects you with expert solutions. Our Q&A platform provides quick and trustworthy answers to your questions from experienced professionals in different areas of expertise. Explore comprehensive solutions to your questions from knowledgeable professionals across various fields on our platform.

What is oxidized in the reaction below?
H2 + Cl2 → 2HCl

Sagot :

csms4

Answer: Cl2 is acting as an oxidizing agent.

Explanation:

Hydrogen reacts with Chlorine to produce Hydrochloric Acid.

                                H2 + Cl2 ---> 2 HCl

Oxidation Reaction: Hydrogen's oxidation state in H2 is changing from 0 in H2 to +1 in HCl per atom. That means that it has lost one electron per atom and two electrons per molecule. Therefore, hydrogen is oxidized and has acted as a reducing agent.

                                H2 ---> 2 HCl + e-

Reduction Reaction: Chlorine's oxidation state in Cl2 is changing from 0 in Cl2 to -1 in HCl per atom. This means that it loses one electron per atom and two electrons per two atoms. Therefore, Chlorine is reduced and has acted as an oxidizing agent.