Question

explain by giving one example why do oxidation and reduction proceed side by side

Answer 1

Explanation:

Oxidation-reduction reaction or redox reaction is defined as the reaction in which oxidation and reduction reactions occur simultaneously.

Oxidation reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance looses its electrons. The oxidation state of the substance increases.

Reduction reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance gains electrons. The oxidation state of the substance gets reduced.

For the given options:

Option A: $FeO+CO\rightarrow Fe+CO_2$

On reactant side:

Oxidation state of iron = +2

Oxidation state of carbon = +2

On product side:

Oxidation state of iron = 0

Oxidation state of carbon = +4

The oxidation state of iron reduces from +2 to 0, it is getting reduced. Thus, it is getting reduced and it undergoes reduction reaction. The oxidation state of carbon increases from +2 to +4. Thus, it is getting oxidized and it undergoes oxidation reaction.

Answer 2

Explanation:

• Oxidation is described as a method involving oxygen gain or hydrogen loss. If a material during a response gains oxygen or loses hydrogen, it is oxidized.

• This will only occur if there is another substance that either supplies oxygen or accepts hydrogen from it.

• If this material accepts hydrogen or provides oxygen, it will be reduced.

• Therefore, while one material gains oxygen or loses hydrogen, the other substance must be present in order to “lose oxygen or gain hydrogen”.  

• That’s why oxidation and reduction are proceeding side by side .