Question

In the equation for the formation of magnesium sulfide shown, which atom gains electrons?

Answer 1

S + 2e⁻ → S²⁻ (sulfur will gain electrons)

Mg - 2e⁻ → Mg²⁺ (magnesium will lose electrons)

Magnesium is a metal which tends to give electrons which are received by the sulfur, which is a nonmetal and tends to gain electrons.

Answer 2

Answer: The atom which gains electrons is sulfur

Explanation:

Oxidation reaction is defined as the chemical reaction in which an atom looses its electrons. The oxidation number of the atom gets increased during this reaction.

$X\rightarrow X^{n+}+ne^-$

Reduction reaction is defined as the chemical reaction in which an atom gains electrons. The oxidation number of the atom gets reduced during this reaction.

$X^{n+}+ne^-\rightarrow X$

For the given chemical equation:

$Mg+S\rightarrow MgS$

Oxidation half reaction:  $Mg\rightarrow Mg^{2+}+2e^-$

Reduction half reaction:  $S+2e6-\rightarrow S^{2-}$

Hence, the atom which gains electrons is sulfur