Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2016 2016Moderate

In which of the following reaction hydrogen acts as oxidizing agent.

Correct answer: C. 2Na + H2 --> 2NaH

  • A. H2 + Cl2 --> 2HCl
  • B. C2H4 + H2 --> C2H6
  • C. 2Na + H2 --> 2NaH
  • D. N2 + 3H2 --> 2NH3

Explanation

In the correct reaction, 2Na + H2 --> 2NaH, sodium (Na) is oxidized, as it loses electrons to form Na+, while hydrogen (H2) is reduced to form H−. Therefore, in this reaction, H2 acts as an oxidizing agent by gaining electrons. In the other reactions, H2 is either oxidized or acts as a reducing agent.

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About Oxidation and Reduction

Oxidation involves loss of electrons, increase in oxidation number or addition of oxygen, while reduction involves electron gain, decrease in oxidation number or removal of oxygen. The topic covers oxidising and reducing agents, oxidation-number changes, redox equations and the distinction between oxidation at the anode and reduction at the cathode.

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