2023 · Q50
Consider the following reaction: 2H₂ (g) + O₂ (g) → 2H₂ O(l) Which one of the following statements about the reaction given above is correct?
General ScienceChemistry
- AThe oxidation state of hydrogen increases while that of oxygen decreases.
- BThe oxidation state of hydrogen decreases while that of oxygen increases.
- CThere is no change in the oxidation state of hydrogen as well as that of oxygen.
- DDuring the reaction, hydrogen is reduced while oxygen is oxidized.
Explanation
In 2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O, hydrogen goes from oxidation state 0 to +1, i.e. it is oxidised and its oxidation state increases, while oxygen goes from 0 to -2, i.e. it is reduced and its oxidation state decreases. Option D reverses this. Hence A.