In the reaction of carbon with oxygen,which substance is oxidized? The equation for the reaction is
C(s) + O₂(g)
CO₂(g) .

Question

In the reaction of carbon with oxygen,which substance is oxidized? The equation for the reaction is C(s)+ O₂(g) CO₂(g).

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this equation, carbon goes from an oxidation state of 0 in C(s) to +4 in CO₂(g), meaning it has lost electrons and been oxidized. Oxygen, on the other hand, goes from an oxidation state of 0 in O₂(g) to -2 in CO₂(g), meaning it has gained electrons and been reduced. Therefore, the substance that is oxidized in this reaction is carbon (C(s)).

In the Reaction of Carbon with Oxygen,which Substance Is Oxidized