Question

The reaction H(2) --> (2H+) + (2e-) represents?

A. Redox
B. Reduction
C. Oxidation
D. Oxygenation

Answer 1

The reaction H2 → 2H+ + 2e- represents oxidation, which is the process of losing electrons. It is one-half of a redox reaction, as reduction also occurs alongside oxidation in full redox processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reaction H2 → 2H+ + 2e− represents an oxidation reaction. Oxidation can be defined as the loss of electrons, the gain of oxygen, or the loss of hydrogen. In this particular reaction, the hydrogen molecule (H2) is losing electrons to form two hydrogen ions (2H+), demonstrating the loss of electrons. Therefore, option C. Oxidation is the correct answer.

Redox reactions involve both oxidation and reduction processes. Within the scope of oxidation-reduction reactions, or simply redox reactions, oxidation and reduction always occur simultaneously. While one element or molecule loses electrons (oxidation), another gains those electrons (reduction). However, in the provided reaction, we are only considering the oxidation half-reaction.