How many electrons are transferred in the following reaction? (The reaction is unbalanced.)
Mg²⁺(aq) + Li(s) → Mg(s) + Li⁺(aq)

Question

How many electrons are transferred in the following reaction? (The reaction is unbalanced.) Mg²⁺(aq)+ Li(s)→ Mg(s)+ Li⁺(aq)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this reaction, MgS and LiS are ionic compounds. MgS has a 2+ charge on Mg ion and a 2- charge on S ion, while LiS has a +1 charge on Li ion and a 2- charge on S ion. When they react, Mg gets reduced and Li gets oxidized. The electronegativity of Mg is less than that of Li, so Mg attracts the electrons more weakly. Hence, the electrons are transferred from Li to Mg. Each Li atom donates one electron to convert the Mg ion into Mg atom. Thus, two electrons are transferred in the reaction.

How Many Electrons Are Transferred in the Following Reaction? (The