Question

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Rusting is a very common example of oxidation/reduction. It can be seen when ships rust.



How can we demonstrate that this general reaction between iron and oxygen is a redox reaction? Use what you've learned about assigning oxidation numbers and apply that to the image below. Some answers may be used once, more than once, or not at all. You can use your guided notes for support!

(4 points)
Match the stem with the element it best describes.(6 points)
Oxygen Iron
Becomes more negative


Is the Oxidizing Agent


Is the Reducing Agent


Is Oxidized


Becomes more positive


Is Reduced


We can confirm rusting is an example of redox because _______________________.(1 point)

electrons are shifted among atoms and charges on atoms either increase or decrease.

we can balance the equation.

protons change in the nucleus of our atoms resulting in new compounds.

electrons are lost to the surroundings when ships rust.
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Answer 1

Becomes more negative — Oxygen
Is the Oxidizing Agent — Oxygen
Is the Reducing Agent — Iron
Is Oxidized — Iron
Becomes more positive — Iron
Is Reduced — Oxygen

We can confirm rusting is an example of redox because electrons are shifted among atoms and charges on atoms either increase or decrease. (Fe: 0 → +3, oxidized; O: 0 → −2, reduced.)