Part 7 Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells and Electrolysis - Part 1

Part VII Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells & Electrolysis (Part 1)/P.
Part VII Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells and Electrolysis
I. Chemical Cells in Daily Life

A. Types of chemical cells
1. Primary cells
They are not rechargeable. Once their chemicals are used up, they have to be thrown away.
Common primary cells are:
Zinc-carbon cells 鋅碳電池
Alkaline manganese cells 鹼性錳電池
鹼性錳電池
Silver oxide cells 氧化銀電池
a. Zinc-carbon cells 鋅碳電池
b. Alkaline manganese cell 鹼性錳電池

鹼性錳電池
Alkaline manganese has a higher capacity than zinc-carbon cells.
Part VII Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells & Electrolysis (Part 1)/P.2
c. Silver oxide cell 氧化銀電池
Silver oxide cell is a type of button cell.
Button cells are small, long-life cells, which are commonly used in calculators, hearing aids and
watches.
2. Secondary cells 蓄電池

They are rechargeable.
The common rechargeable dry cells are:
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) cells 鎳金屬氫蓄電池
金屬氫蓄電池
鋰離子蓄電池
鋰離子蓄電池
Lithium ion cells
Lead-acid accumulator 鉛酸蓄電池
鉛酸蓄電池
a. Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) cells 鎳金屬氫蓄電池
鎳金屬氫蓄電池
(i) NiMH cells can provide a large amount of energy per unit weight or per unit volume of a
cell (high energy density).
(ii) NiMH cells are environmental friendly.
b. Lithium ion cell 鋰離子蓄電池
鋰離子蓄電池
(i) Lithium ion cells provide the greatest amount of energy for a given size or weight of all
commercial rechargeable cells.
(ii) Lithium ion cells are commonly used in mobile phones and other portable electronic
devices because of their light weight.
c. Lead-acid accumulator 鉛酸蓄電池

鉛酸蓄電池
Lead-acid accumulators are commonly used in cars. A 12 V accumulator for cars normally consists of
six cells joined in series.
B. Basic Terms related to Dry Cells
(i) Electromotive force (Voltage)

It is the maximum difference between the terminals of a cell and is measured in volts (V).
The higher the e.m.f. or voltage, the more power a cell can provide as an “electron pump”.
e.g. An alkaline manganese cell provides e.m.f. of 1.5V
(ii) Positive pole (electrode)

The place into which electrons flow from the external circuit.
(iii) Negative pole (electrode)

The place from which electron flow into an external circuit.
(iv) Discharge
It is the conversion of chemical energy of a cell into electrical energy.
(v) Discharge curve

When a cell is being discharged, a plot of voltage against time will give a discharge curve.
(vi) Charge capacity

It is the quantity of electricity which a cell can deliver under certain specified conditions. It is usually
expressed as mAh (read as " milliampere-hour").
(vii) Service life

It refers to the period of useful service of a cell under specified conditions, before it falls to a certain
voltage (usually 0.8V).
(viii) Shelf life
It refers to the duration of storage (at 21oC) at the end of which a cell retains only 90% capacity.
If a cell has a shelf life of 3 years, 90% of its capacity still remains after 3 years of storage (at 21oC).
(ix) Cycle life

It is the number of times that a secondary cell can be charged and discharged before it can no longer
deliver a sufficient amount of energy.
(x) Shape and size

There are two common cell shapes: cylindrical and button.
Four standard sizes of cylindrical cells are the most widely available, with codes of AAA, AA,
C and D.
C. Characteristics of the chemical cells
a. Primary Cells
Zinc-carbon cell Alkaline manganese cell Silver oxide cell
(+): carbon (+): manganese(IV) oxide (+): silver oxide
Electrodes
(-): zinc (-): zinc (-): zinc
Electrolyte Ammonium chloride Potassium hydroxide Potassium hydroxide
Max. voltage 1.5V 1.5V 1.5V
Voltage over Constant voltage over
Falls rapidly Falls slowly
discharge discharge
Steady current? No Yes Yes
Large current? No Yes No
Shelf life (years) 1.5 3 2
Service life Short Long Long
Price Cheap Medium Expensive
Other Leakage of electrolyte Leak proof; small internal Light weight; small size
characteristics occurs in unsealed types resistance
Torches, small radios, motorized toys, flash guns, Quartz watches,
remote control units other appliances where calculators, hearing aids
Usage
there is heavy continuous
use
b. Secondary cells
Lithium ion cell NiMH cell Lead-acid accumulator
(+): lithium metal oxide (+): nickel(II) hydroxide (+): lead plates coated with
Electrodes (-): lithium (-): hydrogen absorbing lead(IV) oxide
alloys (-): lead plates
Lithium salt in organic Potassium hydroxide Sulphuric acid
Electrolyte
solvent
Max. voltage 3.7 V 1.2 V 2V
Weight Light Moderate Very heavy
Energy density Very high High Lowest among the three
Shelf life (years) 1 1 0.5
Price Expensive Medium Cheap
Offer a relatively low Can deliver high discharge Generally too big and
Other discharge current, but high current, but a heavy load heavy, for higher power
characteristics load may overheat the reduces the cell’s cycle life applications
pack
Lithium ion cell NiMH cell Lead-acid accumulator
Electric razors, electric Electric razors, electric Automotive applications,
toothbrushes, medical toothbrushes, video wheelchairs, golf carts
equipment, cameras, mobile phones,
Usage communications emergency backup
equipment, portable DVD lighting, medical
players, PDAs, laptop equipment, electric
computers vehicles
D. Choosing a chemical cell for a particular use

When deciding which type of dry cell to use for a particular purpose, consider the following points:
Price
Size
Voltage
Charge capacity of the cell
Ability to supply a steady current
Whether a small or large current is required
Whether the cell is used continuously or intermittently
Whether the cell is rechargeable or not
Risk of leakage
Shelf life
Whether it is environmental safe or not
Classwork
Suggest which type of cell you would use for each of the following devices. Give reasons for your choice in
each case.
a. Torch
b. Hearing-aid
c. Remote control toy
d. Quartz watch
e. Mobile phone
E. Comparing Life Of Two Common Types of Cells
A student is asked to carry out the following experiment to study the discharge of dry cells.
(a) A zinc-carbon dry cell of size AAA is discharges by three 2.5 V light bulbs arranged in parallel.
(b) The voltage is recorded every 4 minutes until the voltage drops to 0.8V.
(c) The data obtained is plotted on a graph.
(d) The above procedures are repeated by replacing the zinc-carbon cell with an alkaline manganese cell
of the same size.
(e) Result:
Time (min) 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40
Voltage (V)
1.5 1.43 1.3 1.1 0.7 - - - - - -
Zinc-carbon cell
Voltage (V)
1.5 1.48 1.44 1.40 1.34 1.26 1.16 1.06 0.94 0.81 0.66
Alkaline manganese cell
Questions:
1. What is the lifetime of the two cells?
2. If the price of one zinc-carbon cell is HK$1.50 and the price for one alkaline manganese cell is HK$2.50.
What is the cost for discharging each cell for one minute?
3. Decide which cell is the better buy?
F. The use of chemical cells and pollution
Many cells are useless when they become “flat”.
Disposal of these “flat” cells cause pollution problems. The materials inside the cells do not decompose
even after a long time. These materials may combine with other compounds and form harmful
substances which pollute the environment.
Rechargeable cells are becoming more popular now. These cells can be recharged over 500 times.
Although they are more expensive and a special charger is needed for recharging, the cost is much lower
in the long run.
Remedy:
a. Use mains electricity whenever possible.
b. Choose and use dry cells wisely, e.g. by using rechargeable cells instead of non-rechargeable ones.
c. Some manufacturers produce alkaline manganese cells with little or no mercury.
II. Simple Chemical Cells (Electrochemical Cells)
Chemical cells are the devices which change the chemical energy to electrical energy.
The electrical energy is in the form of electricity (or electric current). Electricity or electric current
is a flow of electric charges.
In metals or graphite, it is the flow of electrons. In electrolytes, it is the movement of ions.
A. Simple Chemical Cells

a. A simple chemical cell can be set up by dipping two different metals (metal couple) in an electrolyte.
The two metals are connected by an external wire.
b. A simple chemical cell contains all the essential parts of any electric cell.
(i) negative electrode from which electrons are given out.
(ii) positive electrode receives electrons flow from the anode.
(iii) electrolyte 電解質 in which ions are free to move to complete the circuit.
+
e-
negative terminal positive terminal symbol

(anode) (cathode)
c. Some examples of chemical cell
(1) Lemon cell
(i) Two different metal strips (metal couple) are inserts into a lemon.
(ii) A digital multimeter or a high resistance voltmeter is connected to the metal strips.
(iii) Magnesium is the negative pole (anode) because it gives out electrons.
Copper is the positive pole (cathode) because it receives electrons.
How does a lemon cell work?

a. The lemon juice (citric acid) inside the lemon acts as the electrolyte. This allows electricity to flow
through it to complete the circuit.
b. Magnesium has higher reactivity than copper, therefore, magnesium has higher tendency to lose
electrons than copper. Thus the electrons flow from magnesium to copper through the external
circuit.
c. Electrons flow from negative pole to positive pole.
(2) Magnesium-copper cell
Setup 1:
This magnesium-copper cell can light up a small light bulb.

(a) The magnesium acts as the negative pole (anode) to give out electrons.
(b) The copper acts as the positive pole (cathode) to receive electrons.
(c) The electrons flow from magnesium to copper through the external circuit.
(d) Sodium chloride solution is the electrolyte.
Setup 2:
Instead of using sodium chloride solution as the electrolyte, copper(II) sulphate solution can also be
used.
Similarly,
(a) Magnesium is the negative pole and release electrons to form magnesium ions, Mg2+
Mg(s) → Mg2+(aq) + 2e-
(b) Copper is the positive pole and receives electrons. The copper ions in the solution take up
electrons to form copper metal.
Cu2+(aq) + 2e- → Cu(s)
(c) Overall reaction: Mg(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + Cu(s)
Classwork
1. Refer to the simple chemical cell shown in the figure below.
a. Which is the positive pole?

b. Which is the negative pole?
c. What is the electrolyte used?
d. What is the direction of flow of electrons in the external circuit, from lead to zinc or from zinc to
lead?
e. If the potassium nitrate solution is replaced by peanut oil, what will be the milliammeter reading?
Why?
2. Strips of silver and magnesium are cleaned with sand paper and then connected as shown in the figure
below. The bulb lights up.
a. Why are the metals first cleaned with sand paper?

b. Name the electrolyte used.
c. Explain why the bulb lights up.
d. What energy changes take place inside the lit light bulb?
e. Which forms the positive pole of the cell?
f. What should you do to measure voltage of the cell?
g. Give the main reason why this simple chemical cell would not be used commercially as a source of
electricity.
B. The Electromotive Force e.m.f. (Voltage)
a. Chemical cell is in fact an "electron pump", the "power" of the pump is the electromotive force (e.m.f.)
or voltage of the cell.
Voltage is measured in Volt (V).
b. A very high resistance voltmeter or a multimeter is used to measured the e.m.f. or the voltage of a
cell.
C. Electrochemical Series From Experimental Data

a. Different metals are coupled with copper and the e.m.f.s are measured. The following is the
experimental setup.
b. (i) Before the experiment, the metal strips are cleaned by sand paper to remove oxides or any
impurities on the surface of the metals. This can improve the conductivity of the metal.
(ii) Copper sheet is used as the reference metal.
(iii) A filter paper soaked with sodium chloride solution is placed on the top of the copper sheet.
It is used to complete the circuit of the cells.
(iv) Different metal sheets are placed on the top of the filter paper.
(v) Connect a multimeter to the metals and them measure the e.m.f.s.
(vi) The results are tabulated below:
Metal E.m.f. (Voltage) (V) Direction of electron flow

Magnesium +1.81 Mg to Cu
Zinc +0.92 Zn to Cu
Iron +0.49 Fe to Cu
Copper 0.00 -
Silver -0.17 Cu to Ag
In the above setup,

(i) positive voltage indicates that the electrons flow from tested metal to copper
(ii) negative voltage indicates that the electrons flow from copper to the tested metal.
c. The followings can be concluded:
(i) The higher the position of the metal in the reactivity series, the higher the e.m.f. it gives.
(ii) The higher the e.m.f. implies that the metal loses electrons more easily.
(iii) The values of e.m.f. can be considered as the tendencies to lose electrons.
d. By arranging the values of the e.m.f., Electrochemical Series can be obtained. It is similar to the metal
reactivity series, except the position of sodium and calcium.
D. Improving Simple Chemical Cells
a. If only one electrolyte is used, the electrolyte may react with the metal directly. Thus the cell's e.m.f.
will drop quickly.
b. In a magnesium-copper cell, magnesium is placed in copper(II) sulphate solution.
The electrons are transferred directly from the magnesium metal to the copper ions in the
electrolyte, and copper is formed on the magnesium surface as a result, i.e. displacement reaction
occurs.
Mg(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Cu(s) + Mg2+(aq)
c. The electrons released from magnesium will not pass through the external circuit, but the electrons are
directly transferred to the copper(II) ions.
d. To avoid this, copper and magnesium are separately placed in their salt solution and two half-cells are
then formed.
e. However, these two half-cells are separated and a salt bridge is needed to complete the circuit.
The salt bridge can be made by filter paper soaked with a strong electrolyte, usually potassium nitrate
KNO3 or sodium nitrate NaNO3 is chosen.
f. Function of Salt Bridge
1. To complete the circuit by allowing ions to move between two half-cells.
2. To provide cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions) to compensate those consumed in the
electrodes.
Classwork
Study the following list of substances and the diagram shown.
Substances:
1. zinc; 2. magnesium; 3. zinc sulphate solution; 4. magnesium sulphate solution;
5. filter paper soaked in potassium nitrate solution
a. Label the diagram by the given substances above.

b. Write equation for the reaction at each electrode.
c. Which metal is the positive pole?
d. Which metal is the negative pole?
e. Suggest TWO uses of the filter paper soaked in potassium nitrate solution.
f. Suggest one metal that could replace magnesium and reverse the direction of electron flow.
E. Daniell Cell
a. In the Daniell cell, electrons flow from the zinc strip to the copper container in the external circuit.
b. Zinc is the negative electrode. Zinc atoms give up electrons to form zinc ions.
Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e-
c. The copper container is the positive electrode. The copper(II) ions in the solution gain electrons from the
external circuit to form copper metal.
Cu2+(aq) + 2e- → Cu(s)
d. The overall cell reaction: Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + Cu( s)
e. The overall voltage of this cell is about 1.1 volts.
f. The porous pot acts as a salt bridge. It completes the circuit by allowing ions to move between the two
solutions through its small holes.
III. Redox Reactions 氧化還原作用

Redox reaction is a reaction in which both Reduction 還原 and Oxidation 氧化 occurs simultaneously.
A. Defining Oxidation and Reduction
1. Defining Redox reaction in terms of gain and loss of oxygen.
Reduction : The process of removing oxygen from a compound.

Oxidation : The process of adding oxygen to a substance.
oxidation (addition of oxygen)
Mg(s) + CuO(s) MgO(s) + Cu(s)

reducing oxidizing
agent agent
reduction (removal of oxygen)

(i) oxidation and reduction must occur together.
(ii) as magnesium is oxidized, therefore, CuO is the oxidizing agent (oxidant)
(iii) as CuO is reduced, therefore, magnesium is the reducing agent (reductant).
Classwork
1. For the reaction below:
∆
Fe2O3(s) + 3CO(g) → 2Fe(s) + 3CO2(g)
a. Is it a redox reaction?
b. Which is being oxidized? Why?
c. Which is being reduced? Why?
d. Which is the oxidizing agent?
e. Which is the reducing agent?
2. Is the following reactions are redox reactions?

a. 4Na(s) + O2(g) → 2Na2O(s)
b. Zn(s) + 2Ag+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + 2Ag(s)
2. Defining redox reaction in terms of gain and loss of hydrogen
Oxidation: a process in which a species loses hydrogen

Reduction: a process in which a species gains hydrogen
e.g. reaction between hydrazine (N2H4) and oxygen
N2H4(l) + O2(g) → N2(g) + 2H2O(l)
N2H4(l) is oxidized as it loses hydrogen

O2(g) us reduced as it gains hydrogen
3. Defining redox reaction in terms of gain and loss of electrons

a. For the previous example, both copper(II) oxide and magnesium oxide are ionic compounds. During the
reaction, a magnesium atom loses 2 electrons and a copper(II) ion Cu2+ gains them.
transfer of 2 electrons
2+ 2- 2+ 2-
Mg + Cu O Mg O + Cu
i.e. Mg → Mg2+ + 2e-

Cu2+ + 2e- → Cu
b. Thus, we have another way of defining redox, in terms of electrons.
Redox reaction : It is a reaction involving transfer of electrons.

Reduction : It is the process of gaining electrons.
Oxidation : It is the process of losing electrons.
Reducing agent : It is a substance which reduces others by donating electrons.
Oxidizing agent : It is a substance which oxidizes others by accepting electrons.
c. A substance cannot lose electrons unless another is present which can gain them. This explains why
oxidation and reduction must take place together.
Classwork
Consider the following reactions
a. 4Na(s) + O2(g) → 2Na2O(s)
b. Zn(s) + 2Ag+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + 2Ag(s)
c. Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
i. Which of the above reactions are redox reactions? Why?

ii. For each reaction above, which is being oxidized? Why?
iii. For each reaction above, which is being reduced? Why?
iv. For each reaction above, which is the oxidizing agent?
v. For each reaction above, which is the reducing agent?
d. Half Ionic Equation

(i) We can split a redox reaction into two half reactions - one for oxidation and one for reduction.
Half equations can be used to represent these half reactions.
(ii) For example, magnesium is added to dilute hydrochloric acid HCl, hydrogen gas H2 is released and
magnesium chloride is formed.
Equation: Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Ionic equation:
Which substance is oxidized?

Half equation:
Which substance is reduced?

Half equation:
Classwork
Write the half ionic equations of the following reactions.
a. Fe2+ → Fe3+
b. Cu2+ → Cu
c. F2 → F-
d. OH- → O2 + H2O
B. Oxidation and Reduction in Simple Chemical Cell

(i) For the chemical cell consisting of magnesium and copper dipped in dilute sulphuric acid.
Oxidation and reduction take place at the electrodes.
(ii) At the magnesium electrode, magnesium atoms lose electrons, magnesium ions Mg2+ are formed and
go into the solution.
i.e. Mg(s) → Mg2+(aq) + 2e- Oxidation
(iii) At the copper electrode, the electrons given out by magnesium flow through the external wire/circuit to
copper.
Hydrogen ions H+ in the solution accepts electrons on the copper surface, forming hydrogen gas H2
(hydrogen ions H+ are discharged).
i.e. 2H+(aq) + 2e- → H2(g) Reduction
(iv) Adding up the two half ionic equations, an ionic equation representing the overall reaction results.
Mg(s) + 2H+(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + H2(g)
Note:
1. A chemical cell does not actually "produce" electrons. The number of electrons lost from negative
electrode is the same as that gained at positive electrode.
2 Some hydrogen gas is also liberated at magnesium electrode due to the direct reaction between
magnesium and dilute sulphuric acid.
3. Anode and Cathode

Anode refers to the electrode at which oxidation takes place.
Cathode refers to the electrode at which reduction takes place.
In a chemical cell, the negative electrode is the anode, the positive electrode is the cathode.
Example
Consider a zinc-copper cell,
a. Which metal is more reactive?
b. The zinc strip dissolves. The zinc metal loses electrons to form zinc ions Zn2+. The zinc electrode is the
anode or cathode? Write the half ionic equation?
c. Copper deposits on the copper rod. Copper(II) ions in the solution gain electrons to form copper metal.
The copper electrode is the anode or cathode? Write the half ionic equation?
d. The colour or the blue copper(II) sulphate solutions fades out.
e. The electrons flow from zinc to the copper through the external circuit, which can light up a bulb.
f. The overall reaction:

oxidation: Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e-
reduction: Cu2+(aq) + 2e-→ Cu(s)
Redox reaction: Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + Cu(s)
C. Simple Chemical Cells with Inert Electrodes
Simple chemical cells discussed so far consists of metal couples. However, we can also construct a
simple chemical cell using graphite (carbon) or platinum electrodes and a salt bridge. Carbon and
platinum electrodes are often called inert electrodes because they do not react.
Example 1
At the half cell of concentrated KI solution

A yellow (brown) colour appears around the carbon electrode. It is due to iodine (I2) liberated
because iodide ions I- are oxidized to iodine I2.
Half equation: 2I-(aq) → I2(aq) + 2e- oxidation

i.e. the KI solution is the anode
At the half cell of Fe2(SO4)3 solution

The solution gradually changes from yellow to green, because the iron(III) ions Fe3+ are reduced
to iron(II) ions Fe2+ by gaining electrons.
Half equation: Fe3+(aq) + e- → Fe2+(aq) reduction

yellow green
i.e. the Fe2(SO4)3 solution is the cathode.
The overall reaction:

oxidation: 2I-(aq) → I2(aq) + 2e-
reduction: Fe3+(aq) + e- → Fe2+(aq)
Redox reaction: 2I-(aq) + 2Fe3+(aq) → I2(aq)+ 2Fe2+(aq)
Example 2
Reaction between iron(II) sulphate FeSO4 and acidified potassium permanganate KMnO4 by using carbon
electrodes (inert electrodes).
At the half cell of KMnO4 (Cathode)

The purple colour of the solution gradually fades out, and finally turns to colourless. The purple
permanganate ions MnO4- is being reduced:
Half equation (cathodic reaction): MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e- → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)

Since reduction takes place, it is the cathode.
At the half cell of FeSO4 (Anode)

The green solution of iron(II) sulphate changes to yellow. The green iron(II) ions Fe2+ are being
oxidized to iron(III) ions Fe3+.
Half equation (anodic reaction): Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e-

Since oxidation takes place, it is the anode.
The overall reaction:

oxidation: (Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e-) × 5 ⇐ for balance of charges
reduction: MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e- → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)
Redox reaction: 5Fe2+(aq) +MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) →5Fe3+(aq) + Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)
D. Oxidation Number (Oxidation State)
a. Oxidation number can be applied to both ionic compounds and covalent compounds.
It is defined as the charge of an atom in a compound if it existed as ion.
b. Rules for the determination of oxidation number:

1. The oxidation number of an element is zero.
e.g. H2, O2, N2, I2, Na, K, Mg ....
2. For simple ions, the oxidation number in compounds is equal to its charge.
For example, Fe3+ +3
O2- -2
Br- -1
3. Some elements have fixed oxidation numbers in compounds:
all alkali metal ions in compounds e.g. Na2O, KCl +1

hydrogen in most of its compound e.g H2O, HCl +1
all alkaline earth metal ions in compounds e.g. MgCl2, CaO +2
fluorine in compounds e.g. HF -1
oxygen in most of its compound e.g. H2O, Na2O -2
Exceptions:
(i) Oxidation number of hydrogen is -1 in metallic hydrides such as sodium hydride, NaH.
(ii) Oxidation number of oxygen is -1 in peroxides such as hydrogen peroxide, H2O2
4. The oxidation number of all atoms in a compound added together becomes zero.
For example, H2O (+1)×2 + (-2) = 0
MgO (+2) + (-2) = 0
5. The sum of oxidation numbers of all atoms in an ion is equal to the charge of the ion.
For example, OH- (-2) + (+1) = -1
CO32- (+4) + (-2) × 3 = -2
6. Some elements have variable oxidation number.

For example, oxidation number of manganese in KMnO4 is +7
oxidation number of manganese in MnO2 is +4
Classwork
1. Work out the oxidation numbers of the underlines elements in the following formulae.
a. H2S b. MnO4- c. NO3- d. NaHSO4 e. NO2 f. (NH4)2SO4
g. H2SO4 h. NH4NO3 i. Na2Cr2O7 j. ClO- k. SO2 l. SO32-
2. Consider the following reaction, and answer the questions.
Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) → ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)
a. Write down the ionic equation for the above reaction.

b. Work out the oxidation numbers for all the atoms in each chemical species of the ionic equation.
c. Which chemical species loses electrons in the ionic equation?
d. Which chemical species is reduced in this reaction?
e. Name the oxidizing agent.
f. What happened to the oxidation number of Zn?
g. What happened to the oxidation number of H?
Note:
Oxidation of a substance causes its oxidation number to increase.
Reduction of a substance causes its oxidation number to decrease.
Oxidation Number Charts
Oxidation Sulphur Nitrogen Carbon Iron Copper Manganese Chromium

no.
+7 KMnO4
+6 H2SO4 K2MnO4 K2Cr2O7
+5 HNO3
+4 SO2 NO2 CaCO3 MnO2
+3 HNO2 FeCl3 Mn2O3 CrCl3
+2 SCl2 NO CO FeSO4 CuSO4 MnSO4 CrCl2
+1 N2O CuCl
0 S N2 C Fe Cu Mn Cr
-1 C2H2
-2 H 2S C2H4
-3 NH3 C2H6
-4 CH4
E. Oxidation and Reduction In Terms of Oxidation Number (O.N.)
a. Oxidation - an increase in the oxidation number (O.N.) of a substance.

Reduction - a decrease in the O.N. of a substance.
Example
oxidation ( 0 to +2)
0 0 +2 -2
2Mg(s) + O 2 (g) 2MgO(s)
reduction ( 0 to -2 )
The O.N. of magnesium increases from 0 to +2 and it is oxidized.

The O.N. of oxygen decreases from 0 to -2 and it is reduced.
Example
oxidation ( +4 to +6)
+4 0 +6 -2
2SO 2(g) + O 2(g) 2SO 3 (g)
reduction ( 0 to -2 )
The O.N. of sulphur increases from +4 to +6 and it is oxidized.

The O.N. of oxygen decreases from 0 to -2 and it is reduced.
Classwork
Using the oxidation number concept, find out whether the atom underlined is oxidized or reduced in each of
the following reactions:
1. Cl2 + 2KI → 2KCl + I2

2. Mg + FeSO4 → MgSO4 + Fe
3. 2CuO + C → 2Cu + CO2
4. SO2 + Cl2 + 2H2O → H2SO4 + 2HCl
5. HNO3 + NaOH → NaNO3 + H2O
b. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Oxidation Number concept
(i) Advantages:
1. Oxidation numbers can help us decide whether or not redox is involved in a particular reaction.
2. Oxidation numbers allow us to see exactly which part of a molecule or ion is reduced or oxidized.
e.g. MnO4- + 8H+ + 5e- → Mn2+ + 4H2O
manganese is reduced because its oxidation number changes from +7 to +2.
(ii) Disadvantages:
The main disadvantage of the O.N. concept is that it can cause a misunderstanding about the
structure of molecular substances.
For an example, the oxidation number of carbon in CO2 is +4, but it must not be supposed that there is a
charge of +4 on the carbon atom.
c. The terms used to describe redox reactions are summarized in the table below.
Term Electron Change Oxidation number change

Oxidation Loss of electron(s) Increase
Reduction Gain of electron(s) Decrease
Oxidizing agent Accepts of electron(s) Decrease
Reducing agent Supplies electron(s) Increase
Substance oxidized Loses electron(s) Increase
Substance reduced Gains electron(s) Decrease
F. Stock System of Naming Compounds
The Stock System of naming compounds is based on the oxidation number concept.
Naming of cations:
Some metals form cations with more than one oxidation number. For each of these ions, a Roman
numeral indicating the oxidation state is written in brackets after the name of the metal.
e.g. FeCl2 iron(II) chloride

FeCl3 iron(III) chloride
Cu2O copper(I) oxide
CuO copper(II) oxide
Naming of polyatomic anions:

The name of a polyatomic anion often ends in -ate, followed by the oxidation state of the central element
in brackets.
Compound Common name Name by stock system

Na2SO4 Sodium sulphate Sodium sulphate(VI)
Na2SO3 Sodium sulphite Sodium sulphate(IV)
AgNO3 Silver nitrate Silver nitrate(V)
AgNO2 Silver nitrite Silver nitrate(III)
KMnO4 Potassium permanganate Potassium manganate (VII)
K2MnO4 Potassium manganate Potassium manganate (VI)
K2Cr2O7 Potassium dichromate Potassium dichromate(VI)
K2CrO4 Potassium chromate Potassium chromate(VI)
NaClO4 Sodium perchlorate Sodium chlorate(VII)
NaClO3 Sodium chlorate Sodium chlorate(V)
NaClO2 Sodium chlorite Sodium chlorate (III)
NaClO Sodium hypochlorite Sodium chlorate(I)
G. Strong Oxidizing Agents and Reducing Agents
Main change / Ionic half-equation / change in O.N.

Oxidizing agent
colour change
MnO4- → Mn2+ MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e- → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)

Acidified KMnO4
Purple colourless +7 +2
Cr2O72- → Cr3+ Cr2O72-(aq) + 14H+(aq) + 6e- → 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l)

Acidified K2Cr2O7
Orange green +6 +3
Cl2 → Cl- Cl2(g) + 2e- → 2Cl-(aq)

Chlorine
Pale green colourless 0 -1
Bromine Br2 → Br- Br2(aq) + 2e- → 2Br-

(in aqueous solution) Brown colourless 0 -1
Oxygen O2 → OH- O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 4e- -

→ 4OH (aq)
(in aqueous solution) Colourless colourless 0 -2
H2SO4 → SO2 H2SO4(l) + 2H+(aq) + 2e- → SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

Concentrated H2SO4
Colourless colourless gas +6 +4
NO3- → NO2 NO3-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + e- → NO2(g) + H2O(l)

Concentrated HNO3
Colourless brown gas +5 +4
NO3- → NO NO3-(aq) + 4H+(aq) + 3e- → NO(g) + 2H2O(l)

Dilute HNO3
Colourless colourless gas +5 +2
Metal ions of low Ag+ → Ag Ag+(aq) + e- → Ag(s)

+
reactivity (e.g. Ag ) Colourless Silvery +1 0
Main change / Ionic half-equation / change in O.N.

Reducing agent
colour change
Metals of high Na → Na+ Na(s) → Na+(aq) + e-

reactivity (e.g. Na) Grey colourless 0 +1
SO2 → SO42- SO2(g) + 2H2O(l) → SO42-(aq) + 4H+(aq) + 2e-

Sulphur dioxide SO2
Colourless colourless +4 +6
Sulphite ions SO32- → SO42- SO32-(aq) + H2O(l) → SO42-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2e-

(in aqueous solution) Colourless colourless +4 +6
Fe2+ → Fe3+ Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+ + e-

Iron(II) salts
Pale green yellow +2 +3
I- → I2 2I-(aq) → I2(aq) + 2e-

Iodides
Colourless dark brown -1 0
H2 → H+ H2(g) → 2H+(aq) + 2e-

Hydrogen
Colourless gas colourless 0 +1
H. Balancing Redox Equations Using Half Equations
a. The following simple rules can be used to obtain balanced equations for these redox reactions.
1. Write down the oxidizing agent and reducing agent involved. Determine their products.
2. Write separate half equations for oxidation and reduction in the redox reaction. Balance each
equation with respect to the number of atoms.
3. Balance the number of oxygen atoms by adding of proper number of H2O molecules to either side
of the half equation.
4. Balance the number of hydrogen atoms by adding of H+ to either side of the half equation.
5. Then balance each equation with respect to charge by adding electrons to either side of the
equation.
6. Multiply each balanced half equation by a number such that electrons gained in one of the half
equations are equal to electrons lost in the other.
7. Combine the two half equations to eliminate the electrons. Collect like terms if necessary. this gives
the balanced redox equation.
Example 1
Write a balanced redox equation for the reaction between concentrated hydrochloric acid and potassium
permanganate solution.
Solution
Step Reduction Oxidation

1 MnO4- → Mn2+ 2Cl- → Cl2
2 MnO4- → Mn2+ + 4H2O 2Cl- → Cl2 + 2e-
(to balance no. of O atoms) (to balance the no. charges: 2- on both
MnO4- + 8H+→ Mn2+ + 4H2O side)
(to balance the no. of H atoms)
MnO4- + 8H+ + 5e- → Mn2+ + 4H2O
(to balance the no. of charges: 2+ on both side)
3 [MnO4- + 8H+ + 5e-→ Mn2+ + 4H2O]x2 [2Cl- → Cl2 + 2e-] x 5
2MnO4- +16H+ + 10e-→ 2Mn2+ + 8H2O 10Cl- → 5Cl2 + 10e-

Combining the two half equations:
Oxidation : 10Cl- → 5Cl2 + 10e-

Reduction : 2MnO4- +16H+ + 10e- → 2Mn2+ + 8H2O
Overall : 10Cl- + 2MnO4- + 16H++ 10e- → 5Cl2 + 2Mn2+ + 8H2O + 10e-
equation 10Cl- + 2MnO4- + 16H+ → 5Cl2 + 2Mn2+ + 8H2O
10Cl-(aq) + 2MnO4-(aq) + 16H+(aq) → 5Cl2(aq) + 2Mn2+(aq) + 8H2O(l)
Example 2
Write a balance redox equation for the reaction between copper and concentrated nitric acid.
Solution
Step Reduction Oxidation

1 NO3- → NO2 Cu → Cu2+
2 NO3- → NO2 + H2O Cu → Cu2+ + 2e-
(to balance no. of O atoms) (to balance the no. charges: 0 on both
NO3- + 2H+→ NO2 + H2O side)
(to balance the no. of H atoms)
NO3- + 2H+ + e- → NO2 + H2O
(to balance the no. of charges: 0 on both side)
3 [NO3- + 2H+ + e- → NO2 + H2O] x 2 Cu → Cu2+ + 2e-
2NO3- + 4H+ + 2e- → 2NO2 + 2H2O
Combining the two half equations:
Oxidation : Cu → Cu2+ + 2e-

Reduction : 2NO3- + 4H+ + 2e-→ 2NO2 + 2H2O
Overall : 2NO3- + 4H+ + Cu + 2e- → 2NO2 + 2H2O + Cu2+ + 2e-
equation 2NO3- + 4H+ + Cu → 2NO2 + 2H2O + Cu2+
2NO3-(aq) + 4H+(aq) + Cu(s) → 2NO2(g) + 2H2O(l) + Cu2+(aq)
Example 3
Write a balanced redox equation for the reaction between sodium sulphite solution and acidified potassium
dichromate solution.
[Hint: SO32- → SO42- ; Cr2O72- → Cr3+]
Solution:
Example 4
Write a balanced redox equation for the reaction between dilute nitric acid and zinc metal.
[Hint: NO3- → NO; Zn → Zn2+]
Solution:
Classwork
Write a balanced redox equation for the reaction between:
1. iron(II) sulphate and acidified potassium dichromate solution.
2. chlorine water and potassium iodide solution.
I. The Electrochemical Series (E.C.S.)
Arranging Oxidizing / Reducing Agents to Construct the E.C.S.
Oxidizing power of oxidizing agents increases down the series.

Reducing power of reducing agents increases up the series.
The strongest oxidizing agent is this F2(g).

The strongest reducing agent is K(s)
J. Some Common Electrochemical Cells with Inert Electrodes
The Two Common Set-ups of electrochemical cells
V
V
salt bridge carbon/platinum
electrode
half cell A half cell B

half cell A half cell B
glass wool plug
Set-up 1 Set-up 2
(1) Half cell A: iron (III) nitrate solution, Fe(NO3)3 (aq)

Half cell B: potassium iodide solution, KI (aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: Fe3+(aq) + e- → Fe2+(aq) (reduction; cathode)

observation: brown colour to green colour
Half cell B: ionic equation: 2I-(aq) → I2(aq) + 2e- (oxidation; anode)

observation: dark brown colour appear around the electrode
Overall equation: 2Fe3+(aq) + 2I-(aq) → 2Fe2+(aq) + I2(aq)
(2) Half cell A: acidified potassium permanganate solution, KMnO4(aq)

Half cell B: iron(II) sulphate solution, FeSO4(aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e-(aq) → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)

(reduction; cathode)
observation: purple solution to very pale pink or colourless
Half cell B: ionic equation: Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e- (oxidation; anode)

observation: green colour to brown colour
Overall equation: MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5Fe2+(aq) → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l) + 5Fe3+

(3) Half cell A: acidified potassium permanganate solution, KMnO4(aq)
Half cell B: sodium sulphite solution, Na2SO3(aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: MnO4-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e-(aq) → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)

(reduction; cathode)
observation: purple solution to very pale pink or colourless
Half cell B: ionic equation: SO32-(aq) + H2O(l) → SO42-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2e-

(oxidation; anode)
observation: nil
Overall equation: 2MnO4-(aq) + 6H+(aq) + 5SO32-(aq) → 2Mn2+(aq) + 3H2O(l) + 5SO42-(aq)
(4) Half cell A: acidified potassium dichromate solution, K2Cr2O7(aq)

Half cell B: sodium sulphite solution, Na2SO3(aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: Cr2O72-(aq) + 14H+(aq) + 6e- → 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l)

(reduction, cathode)
observation: orange solution to green
Half cell B: ionic equation: SO32-(aq) + H2O(l) → SO42-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2e-

(oxidation; anode)
observation: nil
Overall equation: Cr2O72-(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 3SO32-(aq) → 2Cr3+(aq) + 4H2O(l) + 3SO42-(aq)

Half cell B: sodium bromide solution, NaBr(aq)

Half cell B: ionic equation: 2Br-(aq) → Br2(aq) + 2e- (oxidation; anode)

observation: colourless to brown
Overall equation: Cr2O72-(aq) + 14H+(aq) + 6Br-(aq) → 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l) + 3Br2(aq)

Half cell B: sodium iodide solution, NaI(aq)

Half cell B: ionic equation: 2I-(aq) → I2(aq) + 2e- (oxidation; anode)

observation: colourless to dark brown
Overall equation: Cr2O72-(aq) + 14H+(aq) + 6I-(aq) → 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l) + 3I2(aq)
(7) Half cell A: chlorine water, Cl2(aq)

Half cell B: sodium bromide solution, NaBr(aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: Cl2(aq) + 2e- → 2Cl-(aq) (reduction, cathode)

observation: yellowish green to colourless
Half cell B: ionic equation: 2Br-(aq) → Br2(aq) + 2e- (oxidation; anode)

observation: colourless to brown
Overall equation: Cl2(aq) + 2Br-(aq) → 2Cl-(aq) + Br2(aq)
(8) Half cell A: chlorine water, Cl2(aq)

Half cell B: iron(II) sulphate solution, FeSO4(aq)
Half cell A: ionic equation: Cl2(aq) + 2e- → 2Cl-(aq) (reduction, cathode)
observation: yellowish green to colourless
Half cell B: ionic equation: Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e- (oxidation; anode)
observation: green colour to brown
Overall equation: Cl2(aq) + 2Fe2+(aq) → 2Cl-(aq) + 2Fe3+(aq)
K. Redox reactions in a zinc-carbon dry cell
a. The following is the longitudinal section of a common zinc-carbon cell:
(i) The zinc case is the negative terminal (anode)

Anodic reaction: Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e- oxidation
(ii) The carbon rod (graphite) is the positive terminal (cathode)

Cathodic reaction: 2NH4+(aq) + 2e- → 2NH3(aq) + H2(g) reduction
(iii) The electrons released from zinc flow through the outer circuit and are used to do work, then the
ammonium chloride gains the electrons.
(iv) The hydrogen formed at the cathode will stick to the carbon rod and decrease the current
(polarization).
Thus, manganese(IV) oxide MnO2(s) is used to remove the hydrogen formed.
2MnO2(s) + H2(g) → Mn2O3(s) + H2O(l)
or the cathodic reaction may be written as:
2MnO2(s) + 2NH4+(aq) + 2e- → Mn2O3(s) + 2NH3(aq) + H2O(l)

(v) The overall reaction:
2MnO2(s) + 2NH4Cl(aq) + Zn(s) → Zn(NH3)2Cl2(s) + Mn2O3(s) + H2O(l)
(vi) The carbon powder is added to increase the conductivity of the electrolyte in the cell.
(vii) It operates on low current.
(viii) Disadvantages of zinc-carbon cell

(1) As the cell is used up, the zinc dissolves away and electrolyte leaks out.
Leakproof cells contain a metal (or plastic) casing around the cell, thus preventing the
electrolyte from leaking out.
(2) If the current is drawn too rapidly, the gaseous products cannot be removed quickly
enough. Therefore, the voltage drops quickly.
(3) Ammonium chloride is acidic, it will react with the zinc electrode directly. Therefore, the
zinc case in a dry cell wears away slowly, even the cell is not being used. Hence the cell
has a relatively short life.
i.e. Zn(s) + 2H+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + H2(g)
Classwork
1. Draw a labelled diagram of a zinc-carbon cell. Indicate clearly the anode, cathode and electrolyte used.
Write the overall cell equation.
2. The following diagram shows the longitudinal section of a dry cell.
rod P
paste containing ammonium

chloride and an oxidizing agent
metal casing Q
a. Name the material commonly used for making

(i) P, and (ii) Q.
b. State the oxidizing agent. What is the function of the oxidizing agent.
c. Which part of the cell is the (i) cathode, and (ii) anode?
d. Write a half ionic equation of the reaction which occurs at (i) cathode, and (ii) anode?
e. A dry cell often leaks after prolonged usage.
(i) Explain the cause of leakage based on the reaction that occurs at Q.
(ii) Suggest a method to prevent the leakage of the cell.
f. The cell will deteriorate after some time although the cell is not used. Explain briefly.
L. The Lead-Acid Accumulator 鉛酸蓄電池

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/leadacid.html
a. This cell stores or accumulates electric charge.

Anode : Lead plates
Cathode : Lead plates coated with lead(IV) oxide
Electrolyte : Sulphuric acid
b. During discharge,
At anode (negative plate): Pb(s) + SO42-(aq) PbSO4(s) + 2e-
At cathode (positive plate): PbO2(s) + 4H+ (aq) + SO42- (aq) + 2e- PbSO4 (s) + 2H2O(l)
Overall reaction:
Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 4H+(aq) + 2SO42-(aq) 2PbSO4(s) + 2H2O(l)
The forward reaction occurs when the cell is discharging. The cell becomes flat when the anode and the
cathode are coated with PbSO4(s).
e- e-
- +
Reacts with sulphuric Reacts with sulphuric

Pb acid to form lead(II)
sulphate and give out
acid to form lead(II)
sulphate and accept 2 PbO2
2 electrons. electrons.
This electrode is This electrode is
negative. positive
H2SO4
Pb PbSO4 PbO2 PbSO4
Lead-Acid Accumulator During Discharge

c. When the cell is charged up
The lead plate is connected to the negative terminal and the lead(IV) oxide plate is connected to the
positive terminal of an external power source. The flow of electrons is reversed, so the backward
reaction takes place.
At negative plate: PbSO4(s) + 2e- Pb(s) + SO42-(aq)
At positive plate: PbSO4 (s) + 2H2O(l) PbO2(s) + 4H+ (aq) + SO42- (aq) + 2e-
Overall reaction:
2PbSO4(s) + 2H2O(l) Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 4H+(aq) + 2SO42-(aq)
e- e-
- +
Pb PbO2
H2SO4
PbSO4 Pb PbSO4 PbO2
Lead-Acid Accumulator During Charging Up
d. The reactions can be summarized as
dischrage
Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) charge 2PbSO4(s) + 2H2O(l)
e. Car batteries of six lead accumulator cells joined in series to give an emf of 12 V. When the car is in
motion, it drives a generator which charges the battery. If there is too much stopping and starting, the
battery loses its charge and becomes "flat", until it is recharged by the passage of a direct current from a
transformer.
M. Hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell (http://www.fuelcells.org/)
a. A fuel cell is primary cell which converts the chemical energy of a continuous supply of reactants into
electrical energy.
Fuel (e.g. hydrogen) is supplied to one electrode and an oxidant (e.g. oxygen), to the other.
A great deal of research is being done on fuel cells as they are a promising sources of energy for the future.
The American Apollo moon probes used hydrogen - oxygen fuel cells. The astronauts used the product of
the reaction of supplement their drinking water.
b. A hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell is a primary cell which directly converts the energy supplied by the oxidation
of hydrogen (the fuel) into electrical energy. A simplified diagram of the hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell is
shown below.
(i) In the fuel cell, the fuel (hydrogen) and the oxidizing agent (oxygen) are respectively supplied in a
continuous flow into the anode and cathode compartments.
(ii) The porous nickel electrodes not only act as the electrical conductors connecting the fuel cell to the
external circuit, but also act as the catalyst for the reactions which occur in the cell.
(iii) The half-reactions and the overall reaction occurring in the cell are:
At anode: 2H2(g) + 4OH-(aq) → 4H2O(l) + 4e-

At cathode: O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 4e- → 4OH-(aq)
Overall reaction: 2H2(g) + O2(g) → 2H2O(l)
c. Fuel cell converts energy from the fuel into electrical energy with high efficiency. Moreover, the product
and the operation procedures are non-polluting. Therefore, fuel cell seems to be a desirable energy
converter. However, the cost is high and thus its use is limited in spacecrafts. The water produced from
the fuel cell is usually removed and consumed by the astronauts. More research and development are
still needed before fuel cells can be used for other purposes.

Part 7 Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells and Electrolysis - Part 1

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Part 7 Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells and Electrolysis - Part 1

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Part VII Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells & Electrolysis (Part 1)/P.

Part VII Redox Reactions, Chemical Cells and Electrolysis

I. Chemical Cells in Daily Life

a. Zinc-carbon cells 鋅碳電池

b. Alkaline manganese cell 鹼性錳電池

2. Secondary cells 蓄電池

c. Lead-acid accumulator 鉛酸蓄電池

(i) Electromotive force (Voltage)

e.g. An alkaline manganese cell provides e.m.f. of 1.5V

(ii) Positive pole (electrode)

(iii) Negative pole (electrode)

(v) Discharge curve

(vi) Charge capacity

(vii) Service life

(ix) Cycle life

(x) Shape and size

D. Choosing a chemical cell for a particular use

II. Simple Chemical Cells (Electrochemical Cells)

In metals or graphite, it is the flow of electrons. In electrolytes, it is the movement of ions.

A. Simple Chemical Cells

negative terminal positive terminal symbol

How does a lemon cell work?

This magnesium-copper cell can light up a small light bulb.

(c) Overall reaction: Mg(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + Cu(s)

a. Which is the positive pole?

a. Why are the metals first cleaned with sand paper?

C. Electrochemical Series From Experimental Data

(ii) Copper sheet is used as the reference metal.

(vi) The results are tabulated below:

Metal E.m.f. (Voltage) (V) Direction of electron flow

In the above setup,

c. The followings can be concluded:

b. In a magnesium-copper cell, magnesium is placed in copper(II) sulphate solution.

Mg(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Cu(s) + Mg2+(aq)

a. Label the diagram by the given substances above.

Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e-

Cu2+(aq) + 2e- → Cu(s)

d. The overall cell reaction: Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + Cu( s)

e. The overall voltage of this cell is about 1.1 volts.

III. Redox Reactions 氧化還原作用

Reduction : The process of removing oxygen from a compound.

oxidation (addition of oxygen)

Mg(s) + CuO(s) MgO(s) + Cu(s)

reduction (removal of oxygen)

(ii) as magnesium is oxidized, therefore, CuO is the oxidizing agent (oxidant)

(iii) as CuO is reduced, therefore, magnesium is the reducing agent (reductant).

2. Is the following reactions are redox reactions?

Oxidation: a process in which a species loses hydrogen

e.g. reaction between hydrazine (N2H4) and oxygen

N2H4(l) + O2(g) → N2(g) + 2H2O(l)

N2H4(l) is oxidized as it loses hydrogen

3. Defining redox reaction in terms of gain and loss of electrons

i.e. Mg → Mg2+ + 2e-

b. Thus, we have another way of defining redox, in terms of electrons.

Redox reaction : It is a reaction involving transfer of electrons.

i. Which of the above reactions are redox reactions? Why?

d. Half Ionic Equation

Equation: Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)

Which substance is oxidized?

Which substance is reduced?

B. Oxidation and Reduction in Simple Chemical Cell

Oxidation and reduction take place at the electrodes.