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Multiple Choice
In the reaction 2Al(s) + 3Br2(g) → 2AlBr3(s), which element is oxidized and which is reduced?
A
Both Al and Br2 are reduced.
B
Both Al and Br2 are oxidized.
C
Al is reduced; Br2 is oxidized.
D
Al is oxidized; Br2 is reduced.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the oxidation states of each element in the reactants and products. For aluminum (Al) in its elemental form, the oxidation state is 0. For bromine (Br2) as a diatomic molecule, the oxidation state is also 0.
Determine the oxidation states of the elements in the product, aluminum bromide (AlBr3). Aluminum typically has an oxidation state of +3 in compounds, and bromine typically has an oxidation state of -1.
Compare the oxidation states of aluminum from reactants to products. Aluminum goes from 0 to +3, which means it loses electrons and is oxidized.
Compare the oxidation states of bromine from reactants to products. Bromine goes from 0 to -1, which means it gains electrons and is reduced.
Conclude that aluminum is oxidized and bromine is reduced in the reaction, matching the correct answer: Al is oxidized; Br2 is reduced.