To determine which element is reduced or oxidized, we must identify the changes in their oxidation states. Compare the oxidation number of the element on the reactant side and on the product side.
Remember the mnemonics:
Mg(s) + NiCl2(aq) ⟶ MgCl2(aq) + Ni(s)
Recall the rules for the oxidation states of some elements
• Mg(s) → Standard state → O.S = 0
• NiCl2(aq) →
▪ Cl → Group 7A → O.S = -1
▪ overall oxidation state of NiCl2= 0 (neutral compound)
oxidation state of Ni + 2 oxidation state of Cl = 0
Ni + 2(-1) = 0
Ni -2 = 0
▪ Ni → O.S = +2
• Ni(s) → Standard state → O.S = 0
Identify the atoms that are oxidized and reduced, the change in oxidation state for each, and the oxidizing and reducing agents in each of the following equations:
(a) Mg(s) + NiCl2(aq) ⟶ MgCl2(aq) + Ni(s)
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Our data indicates that this problem or a close variation was asked in Chemistry - OpenStax 2015th Edition. You can also practice Chemistry - OpenStax 2015th Edition practice problems.