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What substance is oxidized in the following reaction? 4HCl + MnO2 → Cl2 + 2H2O + MnCl2

User Thorax
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1 Answer

11 votes
11 votes

Answer:

Cl⁻ was oxidized.

Step-by-step explanation:

  • 4HCl + MnO₂ → Cl₂ + 2H₂O + MnCl₂

Oxidation can be defined as the process in which the oxidation number of a substance increases.

On the left side of the equation, Cl has a charge of -1 (in HCl); while on the right side of the equation Cl has a charge of 0 in Cl₂.

Thus, Cl⁻ was oxidized.

User Edrevo
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