What is is a simple definition of reduction?
1 answer:
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Answer:
See explanation below
Explanation:
In this case, let's see both molecules per separate:
In the case of SeO₂ the central atom would be the Se. The Se has oxidation states of 2+, and 4+. In this molecule it's working with the 4+, while oxygen is working with the 2- state. Now, how do we know that Se is working with that state?, simply, let's do an equation for it. We know that this molecule has a formal charge of 0, so:
Se = x
O = -2
x + (-2)*2 = 0
x - 4 = 0
x = +4.
Therefore, Selenium is working with +4 state, the only way to bond this molecule is with a covalent bond, and in the case of the oxygen will be with double bond. See picture below.
In the case of CO₂ happens something similar. Carbon is working with +4 state, so in order to stabilize the charges, it has to be bonded with double bonds with both oxygens. The picture below shows.
