Question

the following reaction occurs in a cars catalytic converter. 2no(g) + 2co(g) → n₂(g) + 2co₂(g) which answer best describes the reducing and oxidizing processes in this reaction? no and co are both reducing agents. no and co are both oxidizing agents. the oxidation state of nitrogen in no changes from +2 to 0, and the oxidation state of carbon in co changes from +2 to +4 as the reaction proceeds the oxidation state of nitrogen in no changes from 0 to +2, and the oxidation state of carbon in co changes from +4 to +2 as the reaction proceeds

Explanation:

Step1: Define oxidizing and reducing agents

An oxidizing agent is reduced (gains electrons, oxidation - state decreases) and a reducing agent is oxidized (loses electrons, oxidation - state increases).

Step2: Determine oxidation states of nitrogen in NO

In NO, oxygen has an oxidation state of - 2. Let the oxidation state of N be \(x\). Using the rule that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound is 0, we have \(x+( - 2)=0\), so \(x = + 2\). In \(N_2\), the oxidation state of N is 0. So nitrogen in NO is reduced (\(+2
ightarrow0\)).

Step3: Determine oxidation states of carbon in CO

In CO, oxygen has an oxidation state of - 2. Let the oxidation state of C be \(y\). Using the rule that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound is 0, we have \(y+( - 2)=0\), so \(y = + 2\). In \(CO_2\), oxygen has an oxidation state of - 2. Let the oxidation state of C be \(z\). Then \(z + 2\times(-2)=0\), so \(z=+4\). So carbon in CO is oxidized (\(+2
ightarrow + 4\)).

Answer:

The oxidation state of nitrogen in NO changes from +2 to 0, and the oxidation state of carbon in CO changes from +2 to +4 as the reaction proceeds.