Chapter 20, Problem 62A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The statement that the number of electrons lost is always equal to the number of electrons gained in a redox reaction is to be explained.

Concept introduction: The chemical reaction in which oxidation and reduction take place simultaneously is a redox reaction.

Answer to Problem 62A

The electrons lost and taken up chemical species must be equal in the redox reaction if not it will create unbalance in charge.

Explanation of Solution

Redox reaction is an electron transfer reaction that involves the reduction and oxidation processes. Electrons removed as a result of oxidation are taken up by the species that are deficient in electrons and thereby, occur reduction.

The balanced chemical equation of such reactions must always have the same number of electrons on both sides. If the electron count is different, there will be a unbalance in the charge of that reaction. This unbalance creates some other problems by developing electricity. Otherwise, it cannot be called a redox reaction.