Chapter 20, Problem 71A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Among rhenium and selenium with electronegativity 1.9 and 2.4 the element that would be reduced and oxidized if kept together is to be determined.

Concept introduction: Electronegativity of elements is defined as the ability of that particular chemical species to attract electrons towards it.

Answer to Problem 71A

The element rhenium is oxidized and selenium is oxidized.

Explanation of Solution

Electronegativity and reduction have a direct relationship since both involve attracting electrons. As the value of electronegativity of selenium is 2.4 and rhenium is 1.9 the more electronegative element is selenium.

So, selenium will attract electrons towards it and are said to be reduced while rhenium losses electron and are said to be oxidized when they react together.