Which element is more easily oxidized, Ti or Zn?

Question

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Understand the concept of oxidation. Oxidation refers to the loss of electrons by an atom, ion, or molecule. In the context of metals, the more easily a metal loses electrons, the more easily it is oxidized.. Step 2: Refer to the standard reduction potential table. This table lists elements and their tendency to gain electrons (reduction). The more negative the reduction potential, the more easily the element is oxidized.. Step 3: Locate the standard reduction potentials for Ti and Zn. For titanium (Ti), the reduction potential for the reaction $ \text{Ti}^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow \text{Ti} $ is around -1.63 V. For zinc (Zn), the reduction potential for the reaction $ \text{Zn}^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow \text{Zn} $ is -0.76 V.. Step 4: Compare the reduction potentials. Since Ti has a more negative reduction potential than Zn, it means Ti is more likely to lose electrons compared to Zn.. Step 5: Conclude that Ti is more easily oxidized than Zn because it has a more negative standard reduction potential, indicating a greater tendency to lose electrons.

Which element is more easily oxidized, Ti or Zn?

Key Concepts

Oxidation and Reduction

Standard Electrode Potentials

Reactivity Series of Metals