Question

Write the overall, balanced molecular equation and indicate which element is oxidized and which is reduced for the following reaction. Include phases of matter.
Mg(s) + Cr(C2H3O2)3 (aq)

oxidized: ________

reduced: _________

Answer 1

Explanation:

Mg(s) + Cr(C2H3O2)3 (aq)

Overall, balanced molecular equation

Mg(s) + Cr(C2H3O2)3(aq) --> Mg(C2H3O2)3(aq) + Cr(s)

To identify if an element has been reduced or oxidized, the oxidation number is observed in both the reactant and product phase.

An increase in oxidation number denotes that the element has been oxidized.

A decrease in oxidation number denotes that the element has been reduced.

Oxidation number of Mg:

Reactant - 0

Product - +3

Oxidation number of Cr:

Reactant - +3

Product - 0

Note: C2H3O2 is actually acetate ion; CH3COO- The oxidatioon number of C, H and O do not change.

Oxidized : Mg

Reduced : Cr