Question detail

Which of the following represents a reduction process?

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

  1. A. Fe^3+ + 3e^- → Fe
  2. B. Cu → Cu^2+ + 2e^-
  3. C. 2H^+ + 2e^- → H2
  4. D. Ag^+ + e^- → Ag

Answer

Fe^3+ + 3e^- → Fe

Explanation

The equation Fe^3+ + 3e^- → Fe shows a decrease in oxidation state as Fe^3+ gains electrons to become Fe.

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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