Provide an example of an oxidation and reduction half-reaction.

Example of an oxidation and reduction half-reaction

An example of an oxidation half-reaction is the conversion of iron (Fe) to iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3).

Fe → Fe3+ + 3e-

This reaction involves the loss of electrons, which is characteristic of an oxidation reaction.

An example of a reduction half-reaction is the conversion of copper (II) ions (Cu2+) to copper (Cu).

Cu2+ + 2e- → Cu

This reaction involves the gain of electrons, which is characteristic of a reduction reaction.

In a redox reaction, both oxidation and reduction half-reactions occur simultaneously. For example, the reaction between zinc (Zn) and copper (II) ions (Cu2+) can be represented by the following half-reactions:

Zn → Zn2+ + 2e- (oxidation half-reaction)

Cu2+ + 2e- → Cu (reduction half-reaction)

Overall reaction: Zn + Cu2+ → Zn2+ + Cu

In this reaction, zinc is oxidised to zinc ions, while copper ions are reduced to copper metal. The transfer of electrons from zinc to copper ions results in the formation of a solid copper deposit on the surface of the zinc. This reaction is commonly used in batteries and electroplating processes.

Understanding oxidation and reduction half-reactions is important in many biological processes, such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis. These reactions involve the transfer of electrons between molecules, which is essential for the production of energy and the synthesis of organic compounds.