Which of the following statements is true concerning the reaction: Na(g) → Na^+(g) + e^-?

• A. An electron is gained by sodium in this process.
• B. The reaction represents the reduction of sodium.
• C. Sodium is reduced because it gains an electron.
• D. Sodium is oxidized because it loses an electron.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the species involved in the reaction: sodium atom in the gas phase (Na(g)) is converted to a sodium ion (Na^+(g)) and an electron (e^-).
2. Recognize that the sodium atom loses an electron to form the sodium ion, which means it is losing negative charge.
3. Recall the definitions of oxidation and reduction: oxidation is the loss of electrons, and reduction is the gain of electrons.
4. Since sodium loses an electron in this reaction, it undergoes oxidation, not reduction.
5. Therefore, the correct statement is that sodium is oxidized because it loses an electron.