Question

What is the standard half-cell potential for the oxidation of methane under acidic conditions? The reaction for methane is as follows:

CH4(g) + 2H20(l) → CO2 +8H⁺ +8e⁻
What element is oxidized and how does its oxidation state change?

Answer 1

The element that is oxidized is carbon.

Its oxidation state increased. It increased from -4 to +4

Step-by-step explanation:

Oxidation is a process that involves increase in oxidation number.

The oxidation number of carbon in CH4 is -4

C + (1×4) = 0

C + 4 = 0

C = 0 - 4 = -4

The oxidation number of carbon in CO2 is +4

C + (2×-2) = 0

C - 4 = 0

C = 0+4 = 4

Increase in the oxidation number of carbon from -4 to +4 means carbon is oxidized