Oxidation and Reduction

Mg + PbO MgO + Pb
Oxygen
Oxidising agent :

Reducing agent :

1. Redox reaction is a reaction in which oxidation and reduction occurs at the same time.
2. An oxidising agent oxidizes another substance and itself undergo reduction
3. A reducing agent reduces another substance and itself undergo oxidation.

H2 S + Cl2 2 HCl + S
Hydrogen Oxidising agent :

Reducing agent :

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 1
 Electron 2 Na + Cl2 2 NaCl

- Na Na+ + e- - Cl2 + 2e- 2Cl-

- Na undergo ______________ process. - Cl2 undergo ____________ process

Oxidising agent :

Reducing agent :

Oxidation number

RULE 1 The oxidation number of atom and molecule made from same atoms is zero.
Ex : Na, Mg,Al, Cl2 , O2 , N2
RULE 2 The oxidation number of ion is the charge of the ion.

Simple ion Oxidation number

Cu2+ +2
Al3+
Na+
Cl-
O2-

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 2
RULE 3 Special cases
Special cases Examples Oxidation number
a) All group 1 elements have the Element Na in NaCl Oxidation number of Na = +1
oxidation number +1
Element K in K2 O Oxidation number of K = +1
b) All group 2 elements have the Element Mg in MgO Oxidation number of Mg = +2
oxidation number +2
Element Ca in CaCl2 Oxidation number of Ca = +2
c) All group 13 elements have the Element Al in Al2 O3 Oxidation number of Al = +3
oxidation number +3
d) Group 17 elements (halogens) have Element Cl in NaCl Oxidation number of Cl = -1
the oxidation number of -1 in all their
compounds. Element Br in KBr Oxidation number of Br= -1

e) Oxygen, O has the oxidation Element O in CuO Oxidation number of O= -2

number -2 in its compounds.
Element O in MgO Oxidation number of O = -2
f) Hydrogen, H has the oxidation Element H in HCl Oxidation number of H = +1
number +1 in its compounds
Element H NH3 Oxidation number of H = +1
RULE 4 The sum of oxidation number of a compound is equal to zero.
Ex : i) Sum of oxidation number of Na and Cl in NaCl is equal to zero
ii) Sum of oxidation number of Mg and O in MgO is equal to zero
RULE 5 The sum of oxidation number of a polyatomic ion is equal to charge of polyatomic ion.
Ex : MnO 4 (Sum of oxidation number = -1) NO 3 ( Sum of oxidation number = -1)

CrO 24  (Sum of oxidation number = -2)

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 3
 Calculation of oxidation number of elements
1) Calculate the oxidation number of chromium, Cr in potassium dichromate (VI), K 2 Cr2 O7 .

2) Find the oxidation number of sulphur, S in

(a) H2 SO4 (b) S2 O 32  [SPM 2006]

3) What is the oxidation number of oxygen in oxygen gas, O 2 ? [SPM 2007]

A. -2 B. -1 C. 0 D. +1

4. Which of the following is an oxidation process? [SPM 2008]

A. Carbon dioxide loses oxygen
B. A chlorine molecules gains hydrogen
C. A bromine atom gains an electron
D. A sodium atom loses an electron

5. What is the oxidation number of chromium, Cr in potassium dichromate (VI), K 2 Cr2 O7 ?

[SPM 2011]
A. +6 B. +3 C.+2 D. +1

6. Which of the following is a reduction reaction?[SPM 2017]

A. Carbon gains oxygen
B. Zinc atom loses electron
C. Hydrogen sulphide loses hydrogen
D. Bromine molecules gain electron

7. What is the oxidation number of X in XO4 ?[SPM 2018]
A. +4 B. +5 C. +7 D. +8

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 4
 Oxidation and Reduction in terms of Oxidation Number

Na + Cl2 NaCl

Oxidising agent :_____________

Reducing agent :______________

Oxi num = Oxidation

Oxi num = Reduction

FeO + C Fe + CO 2

Oxidising agent :___________

Reducing agent :___________

Cl2 + KI KCl + I2

Oxidising agent :___________

Reducing agent :___________

Exercise :

1) Which statement defines oxidation? [SPM 2010]

A. Increase in oxidation number
B. Gain of hydrogen
C. Loss of oxygen
D. Gain of electron

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 5
2) Which equation does not represent a redox reaction ?
A Pb2+ + 2 Cl- PbCl2
2+
B 2 Fe + Cl2 2 Fe3+ + 2 Cl-
C Br2 + 2 I- 2 Br- + I2
D Cu2+ + Zn Cu + Zn2+

4) (a) Table 4 shows the equation of two reactions.

Reaction Chemical equation
A Pb(NO 3 )2 + MgCl2 PbCl2 + Mg(NO 3 )2
B Pb(NO 3 )2 + Mg Mg(NO 3 )2 + Pb
Determine whether each reaction is a redox reaction or not.
Explain your answer in terms of change in oxidation number. [4 marks]
-Reaction A is _______ a redox reaction. _________________ of elements ______________
change.
-Reaction B is __________ reaction. Oxidation number of _________ increases from
_______ to ______. Oxidation number of __________ decreases from ________ to _____

5) The following equation shows the reaction between carbon and zinc oxide.[SPM 2008]
C + ZnO CO2 + Zn
Which statement is true about this reaction?
A. Zinc oxide is oxidised to zinc C. The oxidation number of carbon decreases
B. Carbon is the reducing agent D. The oxidation number of oxygen increases

6) Which of the following cannot occur during oxidation? [SPM 2009]

A. Gain of oxygen B. Donation of electrons
C. Loss of hydrogen D. Decrease in oxidation number

7) The following ionic equation shows the reaction between zinc and acid.[SPM 2012]
Zn + 2H+ Zn2+ + H2
What is the change in oxidation number of hydrogen?
A 0 to +1 B 0 to +2 C +1 to 0 D. +1 to +2

8) What is the meaning of reduction? [SPM 2013]

A. Gain of electron B. Gain of oxygen
C. Loss of hydrogen D. Increase in oxidation number

9) Which half-equation shows that reactant act as a reducing agent?[SPM 2017]

I. Mg Mg2+ + 2e II. Cu2+ + 2e Cu
-
III. 2Cl Cl2 + 2e IV. 2H+ + 2e H2
A. I and II B. I and II C.II and IV D. III and IV

10) The following chemical equation represents the extraction of silicon from quartz using
coke.[SPM 2018]
SiO 2 + C Si + CO 2
What is the change in oxidation number of silicon?
A. +2 to 0 B. +4 to 0 C. 0 to +2 D. 0 to +4
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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 6
 Types of redox reaction

1. Changing Fe2+ to Fe3+ and Fe3+ to Fe2+

.
2. Transfer of electrons at a distance. [U-tube]

3. Displacement of metal from its salt solution.

4. Displacement of halogen from its halide solution.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 7
 1) Changing Fe 2+ to Fe 3+ & Fe 3+ to Fe 2+

Fe2+ solution = green ; Fe3+ solution = yellow/ brown

(a) Changing Fe 2+ to Fe 3+ (b) Changing Fe 3+ to Fe 2+
FAMOUS OXIDISING AGENT
Fe2+ 3+
Fe + e Bromine water, Br2 Metals are good reducing
Oxidation number: ____ ____ agent. Ex: Zn, Mg
Acidified potassium manganate
Oxidising agent: ___________________ (VII), [KMnO 4/H+] Zn powder

Br2 Chlorine water, Cl 2

Acidified potassium dichromate
(VI), [ K2Cr2O7/H+]
Iron (III) choride, FeCl3
Iron (II) sulphate, FeSO 4 Fe3+ + e- Fe2+
Oxidation number : ___ ____
(a) Br2 + FeSO4
Oxidation half-equation
Reducing agent : ________________________
Reduction half equation
Overall ionic equation Oxidation half-equation
Observation
Reduction half-equation
+
(b) KMnO4 /H + FeSO4
Overall ionic equation
Oxidation half-equation
Reduction half-equation
Overall ionic equation Observation

Observation

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 8
 (2) [U-tube]

Carbon rod P Carbon rod Q

i) Reduction half-equation : i) Oxidation half-equation :

ii) Oxidising agent : ii) Reducing agent :

iii) Observation : iii) Observation :

Overall ionic equation :

1) The electron flow from Q to P and produce electricity which causes galvanometer
needle to deflect.
2) –ve terminal (release e-) :__________________
+ve terminal (accept e- :___________________
3) Dilute sulphuric acid act as salt bridge which has a function :
i) Separates the oxidising agent and reducing agent
ii) Complete the circuit by allow the ions to flow through

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 9
Exercise :

1) Which of the following is an oxidising agent? (SPM 2009)

A. Chlorine
B. Sulphur dioxide gas
C. Hydrogen sulphide
D. Potassium bromide

2) Which substance is used to change Fe2+ to Fe3+? [SPM 2018]

A. Zinc powder
B. Bromine water
C. Sulphur dioxide gas
D. Potassium chloride solution

3) Diagram 7 shows the set up of the apparatus for an experiment to investigate electron
transfer through a solution.[SPM 2006]

(i) Name the oxidising agent in the experiment.[1m]

(ii) Write the half equations for the reactions that occur at the negative terminal and positive
terminal. [5 m]

(iii) Based on your answer in 7 (b) (ii), describe the oxidation and reduction processes in
terms of the electron transfer that occurs at the negative terminal and positive terminal.

State also the changes that can be observed after 10 minutes. [6 m]

-ve terminal +ve terminal

-Fe2+ __________ electron and - 
MnO ____________ electron and
4
___________ to __________. __________ to _________
- ____________ colour turns________ - __________ colour ___________

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 10
4) Diagram below shows the apparatus set-up used to investigate the reaction of acidified
potassium manganate (VII) and iron (II) sulphate solution. [SPM 2008]

Which of the following is the colour change of the two solutions?

Iron (II) sulphate solution Acidified potassium

manganate (VII) solution
A Green to brown Purple to colourless
B Brown to green Purple to colourless
C Brown to green Orange to green
D Green to brown Orange to green

5) Diagram 6 shows the apparatus et-up for an experiment to investigate electron transfer at a
distance in redox reaction. [SPM 2011]

Diagram 6
(a) State the colour of iron (II) sulphate solution.
___________________________________________________________________________
(b) When the circuit is completed, the galvanometer shows a deflection.
(i) Write the half-equation for the reaction at X.
___________________________________________________________________________
(ii) State the type of reaction in 5 (b) (i).
___________________________________________________________________________

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 11
(iii) Describe briefly a chemical test to identify the cation formed in 5 (b) (i).
-Add _____________ solution until ________
-____________ precipitate formed.

(c) (i) The half-equation below shows the reaction that occurs in acidified potassium
dichromate (VI) solution.
Complete the half equation.
Cr2 O72 + _____ H+ + ____ e- ___ Cr3+ + ____ H2 O

(ii) Based on the answers in 6 (b) (i) and 6 (c) (i) on Diagram 6, draw the arrows to show the
direction of electron flow.
6) Diagram 9 shows the apparatus set-up to study the transfer of electron at a distance.

Which of the following occurs in Diagram 9? [SPM 2013]

A.Iron deposited at electrode Q
B. Electrons flow through sulphuric acid
C. Hydrogen gas released at electrode P
D. Brown colour of bromine turns colourless.

7) The following ionic equation represents the reaction between acidified potassium
dichromate (VI) and iron (II) sulphate solution.[SPM 2013]

Cr2 O72 + 14 H+ + 6 Fe2+ 6 Fe3+ + 2 Cr3+ + 7 H2 O

What is the change of oxidation number if chromium in the reaction?
A. +6 to +2 B. +6 to +3 C. +7 to +2 D. +7 to +3

8) Diagram 9 shows the apparatus and observations for a redox reaction between iron (III)
chloride solution and a metal. (10 m) (SPM 2009)

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 12
Based on the observation shown in Diagram 9, suggest a suitable metal to be used in this
experiment. Predict the ion present in the green solution and explain the answer based on the
following aspects:
 The change in oxidation number for both reactants
 The type of reaction that has occurred to each reactant
 The role of each reactant in the redox reaction
 The half-equations involved in the redox reaction

Oxi ½ equ:
Red ½ equ :
- Oxidation number of Fe3+ _____________ from _____ to __________
-Oxidation number of Mg ____________ from _______ to _________
-Fe3+ undergo ____________
-Magnesium undergo____________________
- Fe3+ act as _____________
-Magnesium act as_______________

9) Iron (III) ions can be reduced to iron (II) ions by substance X.

Which of the following is substance X?
A. Zinc
B. Chlorine water
C. Acidified potassium manganate (VII) solution
D. Acidified potassium dichromate (VI) solution

10) Iron (II) ions can be converted to iron (III) ions and iron (III) ions can be converted back
to iron (II) ions. By using a named metal as a reducing agent and a named halogen as an
oxidising agent, describe briefly how you would carry out these conversions. Describe a test
to show that each conversion has taken place. (10 m) [SPM 2008]

Fe 2+ to Fe 3+ Fe 3+ to Fe 2+
Oxidising agent : Reducing agent :

i) __________ 5 cm 3 FeCl2 solution into test i) __________ 5 cm 3 FeCl3 solution into test
tube. tube.

ii) Add few drops of __________ into test ii) Put __________ powder into test tube
tube
iii) Add _____________ solution until
iii) ________ the mixture ___________

iv) Add _____________ solution until (iv) ___________ precipitate formed

___________

(v) ___________ precipitate formed

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 13
(3) Displacement of metal from its salt solution

K
Na - ___________ electropositive
Ca
Mg - Easily can _________ electron
Al
Zn - Easily can undergo _____________
Fe
Sn - Good ____________ agent
Pb
H
Cu
Ag
Electrochemical Series
1. In a displacement reaction a more electropositive metal can displace a less
electropositive metal from its salt solution.

Ex: Zn & CuSO4

Chemical equation
Oxidation half-
equation
Reduction half-
equation
Overall ionic
equation.
Oxidising agent
Reducing agent
Observation

Ex : Cu & AgNO3 Chemical equation

Oxidation half-
equation
Reduction half-
equation
Overall ionic
equation.
Oxidising agent
Reducing agent
Observation

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 14
Exercise:
1) Diagram below shows the apparatus set-up for a displacement reaction.

Based on diagram above, what is the role of copper (II) sulphate solution?
A. Hydrating agent B. Dehydrating agent C. Oxidising agent D. Reducing agent
2) Mg + Fe2+ Mg2+ + Fe

Which of the following is true based on the ionic equation shows above?
A Iron (II) ion is the oxidising agent in the reaction
B Magnesium undergoes reduction reaction
C Iron is more electropositive than magnesium
D The oxidation number of magnesium decreases in the reaction
3) The ionic equation below represents displacement reactions. [SPM 2000]
X + Y2+ X2+ + Y
2+
Y + Z Y2+ + Z

Which of the following statements is true about the reaction?

A. Y is less electropositive than Z
B. Y is more electropositive than X
C. The descending sequence of the electropositivity of metals is X, Y, Z
D. X and Z act as the oxidising agent

4. Diagram 8 shows the information for reaction I and II.

Based on diagram 8, suggest the suitable metals for M and N. Then write the ionic equation
for both reactions.
Reaction I Reaction II
M= N=

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 15
5) A redox reaction is represented by the equation below. [SPM 2005]

Y + FeCl2 YCl2 + Fe

What can be observed if element Y is replaced with tin, Sn?

A. Grey solid is formed
B. The green solution is decolourized
C. No change is observed
D. A lot of heat is released to the surroundings

6) The following equation shows the displacement of metal Y from its salt solution.[SPM
2011]

X + Y (NO 3 )2 X(NO 3 )2 + Y

What are metal X and Y?

X Y
A Zinc Magnesium
B Zinc Iron
C Copper Magnesium
D Copper Iron

4) Displacement of halogen from its halide solution

1. Halogens are group 17 elements which has ability to accept 1 electron to achieve stable
electron arrangement.

F2 +2e 2F- -Easy to _________ electron

Cl2 + 2e 2Cl- -Electronegativity ________________
Br2 + 2e 2Br- - Easily can undergo ________________
I2 + 2e 2I- - Good ____________ agent

2. The colour of halogens can be identified by using 1,1,1- trichloroethane.

Halogens Colour in 1,1,1- trichloroethane
Cl2 Pale yellow
Br2 Brown
I2 Purple
3. A more electronegative halogen will displace a less electronegative halogen from its
halide solution.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 16
Mixture Observation Explanation
(a) Cl2 + KBr Colourless solution - Cl2 is more __________ than Br2
Cl2 (KBr) turns __________
- So, chlorine can displace bromine from
- Yellow colour of potassium bromide solution.
chlorine will be
decolourised. - Chemical equation :

-- Brown layer can be - Oxidation ½ equ :

observed when 1,1,1-
KBr trichloroethane is added -Reduction ½ equ:

- Overall ionic equation :

-Oxidising agent :

- Reducing agent :
(b) Cl2 + KI -Cl2 is more __________ than I2
Cl2 -Colourless solution (KI)
turns_____________ - So, chlorine can displace iodine from potassium
iodide solution.
- ________ colour of
chlorine will be - Chemical equation :
decolourised.
- _________ layer can be - Oxidation ½ equ :
KI observed in 1,1,1-
trichloroethane. -Reduction ½ equ:

- Overall ionic equation :

-Oxidising agent :

- Reducing agent

Alternative test for iodine:

i) Add starch solution
ii) Brown solution turns dark blue

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 17
(c) [U-tube]

Carbon rod Y Carbon rod X

Cl2 KI

Carbon rod Y Carbon rod X

i) Reduction half-equation : i) Oxidation half-equation :

ii) Oxidising agent : ii) Reducing agent :

iii) Observation : iii) Observation :

Overall ionic equation :

1) The electron released by iodide, I- ions will flow from carbon rod X to carbon rod Y.

2) Cl2 water will accept the electron and undergo reduction to form chloride ion, Cl-.

Negative terminal (electron released) : ____________________

Positive terminal ( electron accepted) : _____________________

3) The flow of electron in the circuit will produce electric current and cause the
galvanometer needle to deflect.

4) Dilute sulphuric acid act as salt bridge which has a function :

i) Separates the oxidising agent and reducing agent
ii) Complete the circuit by allow the ions to flow through

5) Example of other salt bridge that can be used :

i) Sodium chloride, NaCl
ii)Potassium chloride, KCl

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 18
Exercise :
1. Diagram 9 shows the set of apparatus of an experiment to investigate the redox reaction in
terms of electron transfer at a distance.

Which of the following statements is true about the experiment?

A. Iodide ions is the reducing agent
B. Oxidation number of iodine decreases from 0 to -1
C. Oxidation number of manganese from +2 to +7
D. Electrons flow from potassium iodide solution to acidified potassium manganate (VII)
through sulphuric acid.

2. Diagram 16 shows a set-up of apparatus to study the transfer of electrons at a distance.

Which of the following half equations shows the correct reactions at rod P and Q?

P Q
A 2I- I2 + 2e Br2 + 2e 2Br-
B 2I- I2 + 2e 2Br -
Br2 + 2e
C 2Br- Br2 + 2e 2I- I2 + 2e
D 2Br- Br2 + 2e I2 + 2e 2I-

3. Diagram below shows the addition of bromine water into a test tube containing potassium
iodide solution until in excess.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 19
(a) (i) A small amount of 1,1,1-trichloroethane liquid is added to the product in the test tube
and the mixture is shaken.
What is the colour of 1,1,1-trichloroethane layer?
___________________________________________________________________________

(ii) Write the half equation for oxidation and reduction reaction that happens in the test tube.
Oxidation :__________________________________________________________________

Reduction :_________________________________________________________________

(iii) What is the role of bromine water in the reaction?

___________________________________________________________________________

(b) Table 6 shows a materials and apparatus.(3m)

 Porous pot  Bromine water
 Beaker  Potassium iodide
 Connecting wires  Galvanometer
 Carbon electrodes


4) A redox reaction can be represented by the following equation.[SPM 2005]

X2 + 2KBr 2KX + Br2

Element X is in Group 17 in the Periodic Table of Elements.

What can be observed if element X is replaced with iodine?

A. Brown gas is produced
B. Colourless solution is produced
C. No change is observed
D. Brown colour of the iodine is decolourised

5) Diagram 20 shows apparatus set-up to investigate a redox reaction by transferring

electrons at a distance.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 20
In this reaction, electrons flow from electrode P to electrode Q. Which of the following are
the correct solution for X and Y?
Solution X Solution Y
A Bromine water Iron (II) sulphate solution
B Bromine water Potassium iodide solution
C Acidifed potassium dichromate (VI) Potassium iodide solution
D Potassium iodide solution Acidifed potassium dichromate (VI)

Rusting as a redox reaction

1) Iron, Fe will rust in the presence of ________ and ___________

Stage 1: Iron, Fe will donate electron and ____________ to Fe2+. The surface of iron act as
a ___________.
Fe Fe2+ + e

The electron released by iron will flow to the edge of the water droplet.
Stage 2: Oxygen that dissolve in water will accept the electron and __________ to OH- The
edge of water droplet act as a _____________.

O 2 + 2 H2 O + 4e 4OH-

Stage 3 : Iron (II) ions, Fe 2+ will combine with OH- ions to form iron (II) hydroxide,
Fe(OH)2

Fe2+ + 2OH- Fe(OH)2

Stage 4 : Iron (II) hydroxide, Fe(OH)2 will further oxidised to iron (III) hydroxide, Fe(OH)3

Fe(OH)2 Fe(OH)3

Stage 5 : Iron (III) hydroxide, Fe(OH)3 decompose to form hydrated iron (III) oxide,
Fe 2 O3 .xH2 O
Fe(OH)3 Fe2 O3 .xH2 O (Rust).

The colour of the rust is orange-red.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 21
Ways to control rusting

1. Another method to prevent iron from rusting is by using more electropositive metal in
contact with iron.

2. For example if zinc, Zn (more electropositive metal) is coat with iron, Fe.
i) Zinc, Zn is more electropositive than iron, Fe. So, Zn will donate electron and oxidised
to Zn2+. Zinc, Zn acts as a ______________.

Zn Zn2+ + 2e

ii) So, zinc metal will corrode and protect iron, Fe from rusting. Zn metal is known as
sacrificial anode.

3. The rusting of iron will be speed up when coat with less electropositive metal. Iron, Fe
is more electropositive than tin, Sn. So, Fe will release electron and undergo oxidation.

Fe Fe2+ + 2e-

Experiment : Effect of other metals on the rusting of iron.

Jelly solution + potassium hexacyanoferate(III)solution + phenolphthalein

Iron nail
Mg Zn Cu Sn
A B C D E
Test tube Pair of Intensity of dark blue Inference
metals colouration
A Fe Low Little rust
B Fe + Mg None No rust
C Fe + Zn None No rust
D Fe + Cu High A lot of rust
E Fe + Sn High A lot of rust.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 22
 a) Function of potassium hexacyanoferrate (III), K3 Fe(CN)6 = To detect the presence of iron (II), Fe 2+ [Dark blue colour formed]

b) Function of phenolphthalein = To detect the presence of OH- ion. [pink colour formed]

c)

Test tube A Test tube B Test tube C Test tube D Test tube E
i) Iron nail, Fe release electron i) Magnesium, Mg is more Zinc, Zn is more Copper, Cu is less Tin, Sn is less
and undergo oxidation to form electropositive than iron, Fe. So, electropositive than iron, Fe. electropositive than electropositive than
Fe2+. magnesium will release electron So, Zn will donate electron iron, Fe. So, iron, Fe iron, Fe. So, iron, Fe
and oxidised to Mg2+ ion.Hence, and oxidised to Zn2+ ion. will release electron will release electron
Fe Fe2+ + 2e- Fe 2+ ions are not formed and Hence, Fe 2+ ions are not and oxidised to Fe2+ and oxidised Fe2+ ions.
rusting does not happen. [No dark formed and rusting does not ions.
ii) Electrons released will be blue colour] happen. [No dark blue colour] Fe Fe2+ + 2e
accepted by oxygen, O 2 and Fe Fe2+ + 2e
form hydroxide ions, OH-. Mg Mg2+ + 2e Zn 2+
Zn + 2e Dark blue colour
O2 + 2H2 O + 4e 4 OH- Dark blue colour present
Sacrificial anode =_________ Sacrificial anode =________ present
2+
iii) Fe ions will react with
OH- ions to form Fe (OH) 2
which will later form rust.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 23
Exercise:

1) The diagram shows four pairs of metals indifferent test tubes. (SPM 2005)

After one day, in which test tube is the solution blue?

A Test tube 1 B Test tube 2

C Test tube 3 D Test tube 4
2) The diagram shows the mechanism of rust formation. (SPM 2005)

Which of the following statements is true about this mechanism?

A An iron atom releases two electrons to form an iron (II) ion.
B An iron (II) ion receives two electrons from an iron atom
C An oxygen molecule receives two electrons to form a hydroxide ion
D Four hydroxide ions are formed when two water molecules receive four electrons.

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 24
3) Diagram 3 shows the rusting process of iron. [SPM 2006]

Which of the following equations occurs at the cathode?

A. Fe Fe2+ + 2e
B. Fe2+ + 2e Fe
C. O 2 + 2H2 O + 4e 4 OH-
D. 4 OH- O 2 + 2H2 O + 4e

4) Which metal can prevent rusting when it is in contact with iron? [SPM 2010]
A. Lead B. Silver C. Copper D. Magnesium

5) Iron rusts in the presence of oxygen and water. Which method causes iron to rust faster?
[SPM 2011]
A. Coating iron with tin
B. Touching iron with lead
C. Galvanising iron with zinc
D. Connecting iron with magnesium

6) Diagram 14 shows a water droplet on a piece of iron. [SPM 2013]

Which equation occurs at cathode?

A. Fe Fe2+ + 2e
2+ -
B. Fe + 2e Fe
-
C. O 2 + 2H2 O + 4e 4OH-
-
D. 4OH O2 + 2H2 O + 4e-

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B.Edu (Chemistry ) Hons Page 25
7) Two sets of an experiment is carried out to study the effect of other metals on rusting of
iron. For Set I, an iron nail is coiled with metal R whereas in Set II iron nail is coiled with
metal S. Both of coiled iron nails are dipped into hot jelly solution containing potassium
hexacyanoferrate (III) solution and phenolphthalein. The results of the experiment are shown
in Table 8.2.[SPM 2013]

Based on the observations,

(i) suggest metal R and S

(ii) in each set of experiment,

-explain the observation and include half-equation

-state the metal that is oxidised. [10 marks]

Set I Set II
R= S=
- ___________ is formed - ___________ is formed
- Iron nail_______ - Iron nail ____________ rust
- Iron nail is _________ electropositive - ______________ is more
than ___________ electropositive than _______
- Iron is _____________ - ____________ is oxidised
- ½ equ : - ½ equ:

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8) Diagram 9.1 shows the mechanism of rusting of iron.

(a) Write the half-equation for the reaction occurred at negative terminal and positive
terminal. Then, state the type of reaction at the positive terminal.

-ve terminal :

+ terminal :

[4 marks]

(b) Diagram 9.2 shows the observation of two sets of experiment when iron are in contact
with two different metals, X and Y. When the layer of metal X and Y are scratched, the iron
are exposed to oxygen and water.

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Based on diagram, suggest metal X and Y. Then explain the difference in the observations in
Set I and II.[6 marks]

Set I Set II
Metal X : Metal Y:

- Zinc is _____________________ than iron -Copper is _____________________ than

iron
- Zinc metal __________ electron and
___________ to _______ -Iron metal _______________ and
_____________ to_____________
-Zinc metal _____________
-Iron metal _____________

Reactivity Series of Metals

1. Metals react with oxygen to form metal oxides.

Ex : i) 2 Mg + O 2 2 MgO
ii) 4 Al + 3O 2 2 Al2 O3

Na

Ca

Mg -Reactivity with O 2 decreases

Al

Zn

Fe

Sn

Pb

Cu

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3. The metals that are more reactive will burn more faster and brighter with oxygen
compare with the less reactive metal.
Metal Glass wool Solid potassium manganate
(VII),KMnO4 (VII)

Heat Heat

Reaction between metals and oxygen

Metals Reactivity
Magnesium, Mg -Burns faster with a brighter flame
Copper,Cu - Burns very slow with a dimmer flame

Position of carbon, C in the reactivity series of metals

1. The metal which is higher in the series (more reactive), will be able to pull the oxygen
from metals which are lower in the series (less reactive). For example:
i) Mg + ZnO MgO + Zn
ii) Cu + Al2 O3
2. Carbon, C can pull the oxygen from metal that is less reactive than it.

Ex: C + CuO Cu + CO 2

Metal oxide + carbon, C

Mixture Observation
C + CuO Bright flame. Brown colour solid formed
C + ZnO Bright flame. Grey solid formed
C + Al2 O3 No flame.
1. Carbon can reduce CuO and ZnO to their respective metal. So, carbon is more reactive and
placed in a higher position than Cu and Zn in reactivity series of metals.

C + CuO CO 2 + Cu
C + ZnO CO 2 + Zn
C + Al2 O3
2. But, carbon, C cannot react with Al2 O3 . So, carbon is less reactive and located below than
aluminium, Al in reactivity series of metals.

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Position of hydrogen, H in the reactivity series of metals

1. Hydrogen can reduce the oxides of the metal that is less reactive than it.

Ex : H2 + CuO H2 O + Cu

Mixture Observation
H2 + CuO Bright glow. A brown solid is formed
H2 + Fe2 O3 Dim glow. Grey solid is formed
H2 + ZnO No flame.

2. Hydrogen, H2 can reduce CuO and Fe2 O3 to Cu and Fe. So, H2 is more reactive and
situated above Cu and Fe in the reactivity series of metals.
H2 + CuO
H2 + Fe2 O3

3. H2 cannot react with ZnO. So, H2 is located below Zn in the reactivity series of metals.
Extraction of iron, Fe and tin, Sn

1. Carbon is more reactive towards oxygen compare to Fe and Sn. So, carbon, C can pull
oxygen form iron (III) oxide, Fe2 O3 and tin (IV) oxide, SnO 2

(i) C + Fe2 O3 CO2 + Fe

(ii) C + SnO 2

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Exercise :

1) What is the position of hydrogen in reactivity series of metals?[SPM 2006]

A. Between zinc and iron
B Between aluminium and zinc
C. Between lead and copper
D. Between iron and lead.

2) The following equation shows the reaction between carbon and zinc oxide. [SPM 2008]

C + 2 ZnO CO 2 + 2 Zn

Which of the following is TRUE?

A Zinc oxide is oxidised to zinc
B Carbon is the reducing agent
C The oxidation number of carbon decreases
D The oxidation number of oxygen increases

3) Diagram below shows the apparatus set-up to study the reactivity of metal with oxygen.
The colour of the product formed is yellow when hot and white when cold.[SPM 2012]

What is the metal?

A. Iron B. Lead C. Zinc D. Copper

4) Diagram 4 shows the extraction process of iron in a blast furnace. (SPM 2006)

What is substance X?
A Silver B Aluminium C Coke D Vanadium (V) oxide

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 5) Diagram 8 shows the apparatus set-up for an experiment to determine the order of metal Y,
metal magnesium, and metal Z in the reactivity series of metal towards oxygen. Potassium
manganate (VII) is heated to release oxygen gas to react with metals.[SPM 2013]

Table 8 shows the observation of the experiment.

Metal Observation
Y -Glows faintly
-Black residue formed
Magnesium -Burnt brightly
-White residue formed
Z -Glows brightly
-Yellow residue when hot, white when cold.

(i) State the type of reaction occurs when oxygen reacts with metals. [1m]

(ii) Based on the observation,identify metal Y and Z.

Arrange metal Y, metal magnesium and metal Z in descending order based on their reactivity.
Write the chemical equation for the reaction between metal magnesium and oxygen. [5m]

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7. Table 3 shows the information for four sets of experiment to construct the reactivity series of
metals.
Set Reactants Observation
I Carbon + Iron(III) oxide Grey solid is formed
II Carbon + Oxide of X Brown solid is formed
III Carbon + Magnesium oxide No change
IV X + Iron(III) oxide No change
Table 3

(a) Set I is a redox reaction.

(i) What is the meaning of redox reaction?
-_______________ and ______________ occurs at the ______________
[1m]
(ii) Write the chemical equation for the reaction.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[2m]

(iii) State the change in the oxidation number of iron.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[1m]

(iv) Which substance undergoes reduction?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[1m]

(b) Based on set II and set III, explain the difference in the observations.
- In Set II, carbon is _________ reactive than metal X. Carbon can _________ oxygen from X oxide.
- In Set III, carbon is ___________ reactive than magnesium. Carbon ___________ remove oxygen
from magnesium oxide.
[2m]
(c) (i) Arrange X, carbon, magnesium and iron in descending order of reactivity.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[1m]

(ii) Suggest X.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
[1m]
(d) Draw a labelled diagram for the apparatus set-up used in set II.

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Redox Reaction in Electrolytic and Chemical cells

Electrolytic cell Voltaic cell

Structure

Anode ( + ) : SO 24  , OH- Negative terminal

Oxidation Zn Zn2+ + 2e
4 OH- O2 + 2H2 O + 4e

Cathode ( − ) : Cu2+, H+ Positive terminal

Reduction
Cu2+ + 2e Cu Cu2+ + 2e Cu

Anode to Cathode Electron flow Negative terminal to Positive terminal

Electrical Chemical Energy Chemical Electrical

Exercise :
1. Diagram 3 shows the apparatus set-up of cell X.

(a) Name cell X

___________________________________________________________________________
(b) Write the chemical formula of sodium sulphate
___________________________________________________________________________
(c) (i) Draw the direction of electron flow in cell X.

(ii) State the process that occurs at:

Magnesium electrode:_________________________________________________________
Copper electrode:____________________________________________________________

(d) Write an ionic equation for the overall reaction in cell X.

_________________________________________________________________________

‘END OF CHAPTER’

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