Final answer:
In the reaction H2S (g) + Cl2 (g) → S (s) + HCl (g), H2S is the compound that is oxidized, as its oxidation state changes from -2 to 0.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identifying the Oxidized Compound
The compound oxidized in the reaction H2S (g) + Cl2 (g) → S (s) + HCl (g) is H2S (hydrogen sulfide). During this reaction, hydrogen sulfide acts as a reducing agent and undergoes oxidation.
When identifying the oxidized compound, it's important to look at the change in oxidation states of the elements involved in the reaction. In this case, the sulfur in H2S goes from an oxidation state of -2 to 0, indicating that it has lost electrons and has been oxidized.
In contrast, chlorine is reduced as it gains electrons going from an oxidation state of 0 in Cl2 to -1 in HCl. Therefore, Cl2 serves as the oxidizing agent in this redox reaction.