Explain how the terms oxidation and reduction apply even when there is only a partial shift of electrons between atoms linked by

Question

4 years ago

10

a covalent bond

1 answer:

aliina [53] · Answer 1 · 2022-02-16T19:59:23+03:00

Explanation:

In a covalent bond, there is sharing of the donated electron by two atomic species having very small electronegative differences between them.

Oxidation is the loss of electrons by a specie and it usually lead to an increase in oxidation number.

Reduction is the gain of electrons by a specie. It leads to a lower oxidation number.

Since there is no actual loss of gain of electrons in a covalent body, the electronegativiy is at work.

Electronegativity is the ability of a specie to draw the shared electrons more to itself in a covalent bond.

Between two atoms bonded covalently, the more electronegative specie draws the electrons closer.
This leaves a partial negative charge on it.
The other electron then becomes partially positively charged.
We can then say, the more electronegative specie undergoes reduction.
The less electronegative one undergoes oxidation.

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