Question on redox reaction

[john216]

i know that redox reaction involves change in oxidation number.
My question is definition of "oxidation number",
does it just mean total # of electron exchange after balancing the redox rxn?


And, could you explain how to find oxidation number each ions , and if the reaction is redox rxn?

C5H12 + 8 O2 -> 5 CO2 + 6 H2O

thanks

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[Eri3]

i know that redox reaction involves change in oxidation number.
My question is definition of "oxidation number",
does it just mean total # of electron exchange after balancing the redox rxn?


And, could you explain how to find oxidation number each ions , and if the reaction is redox rxn?

C5H12 + 8 O2 -> 5 CO2 + 6 H2O

thanks

The easiest way to find out if a rxn is a redox rxm us by searching for elements in their elemental state- - which have an oxidation number of 0.

Also if a species is being reduced (gaining electrons - oxidation number gets more negative) or oxidized(loses electrons- oxidation number gets more positive) then it is a redox rxn.

I'm sure you've heard of "LEO the lion goes GER
Losing Electrons Oxidation & Gaining Electrons Reduction

In terms of assigning oxidation numbers to specific elements there are certain rules that you must know- in addition you must know the list of polyatomics and their charges. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0RfMRDy34w

Or you can buy a video from Chad - he does a really good job explaining electrochemistry.

 

[john216]

I know oxygen on reactant side is 0 but what about right?
Am I supposed to calculate oxidation state for both Os in CO2 and H2O?
anyone ? please help

 

[sjv]

I know oxygen on reactant side is 0 but what about right?
Am I supposed to calculate oxidation state for both Os in CO2 and H2O?
anyone ? please help

Both Os on product side are -2, Hs are nearly always +1 and in CO2 you would assign O its normal oxidation state before C. I would check out some oxidation state rules, its a breeze once you learn those.