Determine whether each reaction is a redox reaction. For each redox reaction, identify the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent. a. Al(s) + 3 Ag⁺(aq) → Al³⁺(aq) + 3 Ag(s) b. SO₃(g) + H₂O(l) → H₂SO₄(aq) c. Ba(s) + Cl₂(g) → BaCl₂(s) d. Mg(s) + Br₂(l) → MgBr₂(s)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: For each reaction, assign oxidation states to all elements in the reactants and products.
2. Step 2: Identify any changes in oxidation states for each element in the reactions.
3. Step 3: Determine if there is a transfer of electrons by checking if any element's oxidation state increases (indicating oxidation) and if any decreases (indicating reduction).
4. Step 4: If a reaction involves changes in oxidation states, it is a redox reaction. Identify the oxidizing agent as the species that is reduced (gains electrons) and the reducing agent as the species that is oxidized (loses electrons).
5. Step 5: For each reaction, summarize whether it is a redox reaction and specify the oxidizing and reducing agents if applicable.

Key Concepts

Redox Reactions

Redox reactions, or reduction-oxidation reactions, involve the transfer of electrons between two species. In these reactions, one species is oxidized (loses electrons) while another is reduced (gains electrons). Identifying redox reactions is crucial for understanding how substances interact and change during chemical processes.

Oxidizing and Reducing Agents

The oxidizing agent is the substance that gains electrons and is reduced in a redox reaction, while the reducing agent is the substance that loses electrons and is oxidized. Recognizing these agents is essential for analyzing the electron transfer and understanding the overall reaction mechanism.

Half-Reaction Method

The half-reaction method is a technique used to separate the oxidation and reduction processes in a redox reaction. By writing the half-reactions, one can clearly identify the changes in oxidation states and the respective agents involved. This method simplifies the analysis of complex reactions and aids in balancing redox equations.