Question

For the following reaction, identify the element that was oxidized, the element that was reduced, and the reducing agent. Give an explanation for each answer. SnCl2 + PbCl4 yields SnCl4 + PbCl2

Answer 1

Equation is as follow,

SnCl₂ + PbCl₄ → SnCl₄ + PbCl₂

Oxidation State of Sn on left hand side in SnCl₂ is +2, while that in SnCl₄ on right hand side is +4. Means Sn has lost two electrons. Hence, it is oxidized and has worked as a reducing agent (has reduced Pb from Pb⁺⁴ to Pb⁺²).

Oxidation State of Pb on left hand side in PbCl₄ is +4, while that in PbCl₂ on right hand side is +2. Means Pb has gained two electrons. Hence, it is reduced and has worked as an oxidizing agent (has oxidized Sn from Sn⁺² to Sn⁺⁴).