Question detail
What is defined as a decrease in oxidation state?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Oxidation, reduction and redox equations
Question
- A. Oxidation
- B. Reduction
- C. Oxidising agent
- D. Reducing agent
Answer
Reduction
Explanation
Reduction is defined as a decrease in oxidation state, which means that an atom or ion gains electrons.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Reduction
Students often confuse reduction with an increase in oxidation state instead of a decrease.
Reduction is defined as a decrease in oxidation state. To clarify, remember that when an element gains electrons, its oxidation state decreases. For example, in the reaction where Fe^3+ gains an electron to become Fe^2+, the oxidation state decreases from +3 to +2, confirming that reduction has occurred.
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