given the reaction below, which is being oxidized? mg + cl₂ → mg²⁺ + 2cl⁻\n2cl⁻\ncl₂\nmg\nmg²⁺
given the reaction below, which is being oxidized? mg + cl₂ → mg²⁺ + 2cl⁻\n2cl⁻\ncl₂\nmg\nmg²⁺
Answer
Explanation:
Step1: Define oxidation
Oxidation is the loss of electrons.
Step2: Analyze oxidation - state changes
Magnesium ($Mg$) has an oxidation - state of 0 in its elemental form. In $Mg^{2 + }$, its oxidation - state is +2. Chlorine ($Cl_2$) has an oxidation - state of 0 in its elemental form. In $Cl^-$, its oxidation - state is - 1.
Step3: Determine the oxidized species
$Mg$ goes from an oxidation - state of 0 to +2, losing 2 electrons. So, $Mg$ is being oxidized.
Answer:
Mg