Answer to Question #285217 in Chemistry for michelle

Question

In the reaction PbO (s) + C (s) → 2 Pb (s) + CO₂ (g) identify the element that is oxidized?

Answer 1

Solution:

Balanced chemical equation:

2PbO(s) + C(s) → 2Pb(s) + CO₂(g)

Separate the half-reactions:

Pb²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Pb^o (reduction half-reaction)

C^o - 4e⁻ → C⁺⁴ (oxidation half-reaction)

Here, C(s) oxidizes itself to form CO₂(g) and reduces PbO(s) to form Pb(s).

Therefore,

C (carbon) is the element that is oxidized.

Answer: C