Question

Enter electrons as e. Use smallest possible integer coefficients. If a box is not needed, leave it blank. For the following electron-transfer reaction: Zn(s) + 2Cr3+ (aq) → Zn2+ (aq) + 2Cr2+(aq) The oxidation half-reaction is: The reduction half-reaction is:

Answer 1

The reaction that is mentioned here has two half reactions. One is oxidation half reaction and another is reduction half reaction. Now, according to the electron transfer oxidation reaction is associated with loss of electron(s) by an atom or increase in oxidation state in that atom by other atom present in the reaction. Whereas, reduction reaction implies a decrease in oxidation state or gain in electron(s) by a particular atom.

Therefore the oxidation half reaction is:

Zn(s) → Zn2+ (aq) + 2e

And the reduction half reaction is:

Cr3+ (aq) + + Cr2+ (aq)