Redox Reactions 89

Redox Reactions
Quick Revision
The reactions that involve oxidation and reduction 4. Oxidation Number
as its two half reactions are called redox reactions. It is defined as ‘‘the charge that an atom of the
1. Classical Idea of Redox Reactions element possesses in its ion or appear to have
According to classical concepts, oxidation and when present in the combined state with
reduction are defined as the process that involve: other atoms.’’
Oxidation 5. Rules for Calculating Oxidation Number
(i) Addition of oxygen These rules are given below:
(ii) Addition of electronegative element Rule 1 The oxidation number of an atom in its free
(iii) Removal of hydrogen or elementary state or in any of its allotropes
(iv) Removal of electropositive element is zero. e.g. The oxidation state of H in H 2 , S
Reduction in S 8 , P in P4.
(i) Removal of oxygen
Rule 2 In case of ions having only one kind of
(ii) Removal of electronegative element
atoms, the oxidation number of each atom
(iii) Addition of hydrogen
is equal to charge present on the ion. e.g. In
(iv) Addition of electropositive element
case of Na + , Mg 2+ , Fe 3+ , Cl − and O2− , the
2. Oxidising and Reducing Agents oxidation state is respectively + 1 , + 2 , + 3 ,
In a redox reaction, the substance which − 1, − 2 .
oxidises the other species or itself undergo Rule 3 The oxidation state of alkali metals in all
reduction is called the oxidising agent. The their compounds is always + 1. Similarly,
substance that reduces the other species and in case of alkaline earth metals, it is always
itself undergo oxidation is called the reducing +2. For aluminium, oxidation state is
agent. always + 3.
3. Redox Reactions in Term of Electron Rule 4 The oxidation state of oxygen in most of its
Transfer compounds is − 2, with an exception of
Loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation peroxides and superoxides in which the
state is called oxidation. Gain of electrons or a oxidation state of oxygen is respectively − 1
decrease in oxidation state is called reduction. and − 1/ 2 .
Because of simultaneous loss and gain of Rule 5 The oxidation state of hydrogen is generally
electrons in oxidation-reduction processes, the + 1 with an exception of metallic hydrides
redox reactions, (or the oxidation-reduction like NaH, CaH 2 etc. In these hydrides,
reactions) are also called electron transfer oxidation state of hydrogen is −1 .
reactions.
Rule 6 The oxidation state of fluorine in all of its O O
compounds is always − 1. Other halogens (i.e. +5
 0 0 +5
chlorine, bromine and iodine) also – O  S  S  S  S  O–
exhibit − 1 oxidation state but it is not  
always true. O O
In case of oxoacids and oxoanions, halogens 7. Balancing of Redox Reactions
(except fluorine) exhibit positive oxidation (i) Ion electron method The method
state. involves the following steps:
Rule 7 The algebraic sum of the oxidation numbers of (a) Write redox reaction in ionic form.
all the atoms present in a compound must be
(b) Split redox reaction into oxidation half
equal to zero.
and reduction half reactions. Balance
Rule 8 In case of polyatomic ions, the algebraic atoms of each half reactions by using
sum of oxidation number of all the atoms simple multiples.
present in the ion must be equal to the
For balancing H and O, add H + ion and
charge on the ion. e.g. In case of carbonate
H 2O to the appropriate sides, similarly
ion (CO2− 3 ), it is equal to −2. add OH − and H 2O to the appropriate
6. Paradox of Fractional Oxidation Number sides.
−2 +2 0 +2 −2 Balance the charge on both sides and
● In C 3O2 , O == C == C == C == O multiply one or both half reactions by
two carbon atoms are present in +2 oxidation suitable number to equalise number of
state each whereas third one is present in zero electrons in both equations. Add the two
oxidation state. balance half reactions and cancel
The average of oxidation states of 3 C-atoms in common terms.
2+ 2+ 0 4 (ii) Oxidation number method The method
C 3O2 = =
3 3 involves the following steps:
● Average oxidation state of Br in Br3O8 is 16/3 (a) Assign oxidation number to the atoms in
while the oxidation states of three Br atoms are the equation and write separate equations
+ 6, + 4 and + 6 as shown below: for atoms undergoing oxidation and
O == O == O
reduction.
== ==

+6 +4 +6
O== Br — Br —Br=== O (b) Find the change in oxidation number in
= = each equation and make the change
O= O
O equal in both the equations by
● The average oxidation state of four S-atoms in multiplying with suitable integers.
S 4O2–
6 is 2.5 while the actual oxidation state of After adding both the equations
the four S-atoms are +5, 0, 0 and +5 as shown complete the balancing (by balancing H
below: and O).
 Objective Questions
Multiple Choose Questions Which of the following processes takes
place?
1. Which of the following reactions (a) Oxidation due to removal of potassium
represent(s) redox process? (b) Oxidation due to removal of iron
(a) Electrochemical process for extraction of (c) Reduction due to removal of potassium
highly reactive metals and non-metals (d) Oxidation due to removal of
(b) Manufacturing of caustic soda electronegative element
(c) Corrosion of metals 7. In the following reaction,
(d) All of the above
2Mg (s ) + O 2 ( g ) → 2MgO(s )
2. Which of the following processes take the process taking place w.r.t. Mg is
place in oxidation? known as
(a) Addition of oxygen (b) Addition of hydrogen (a) oxidation (b) reduction
(c) Removal of oxygen (d) Removal of chlorine (c) redox reaction (d) None of these
3. Which of the following processes take 8. In the given reaction,
place in reduction? CH 2 == CH 2 + H 2 → H 3C — CH 3
(a) Removal of oxygen there occurs
(b) Addition of hydrogen (a) oxidation of ethylene
(c) Removal of hydrogen (b) reduction of ethylene
(d) Both (a) and (b)
(c) Both (a) and (b)
4. In the given reaction, (d) None of the above

2FeCl 3 (aq ) + H 2 ( g ) → 2FeCl 2 (aq ) 9. In oxidation process,

ferric chloride undergoes +2HCl(aq ) (a) oxidation number decreases
(b) number of electrons decreases
(a) reduction process (c) oxygen content decreases
(b) oxidation process (d) number of ions decreases
(c) addition process
(d) All of the above 10. Given the reaction for the discharge of
a cobalt-cadmium battery
5. In the reaction given below, identify the
2Co(OH) 3 + Cd +2H 2O → 2Co(OH) 2
species undergoing oxidation and
reduction, respectively + Cd(OH) 2
H 2 S + Cl 2 → 2HCl + S Which species is oxidised during the
(a) H2 S is oxidised and Cl2 is reduced discharge of the battery?
(b) H2 S is reduced and Cl2 is oxidised (a) Co3+ (b) Co2+ (c) Cd (d) Cd2+
(c) Both H2 S and Cl2 are oxidised 11. Both oxidation and reduction takes
(d) Both H2 S and Cl2 are reduced place in
6. In the given reaction, (a) NaBr + HCl → NaCl + HBr
2K 4 [Fe(CN) 6 ](aq ) + H 2O 2 (aq ) → (b) HBr + AgNO 3 → AgBr + HNO 3
(c) H2 + Br2 → 2HBr
2K 3 [Fe(CN) 6 ] (aq ) + 2KOH (aq ) (d) CaO + H2 SO 4 → CaSO 4 + H2O
12. In the reaction, Codes
A B C D A B C D
2KClO 3 → 2KCl + 3O 2 , (a) 2 3 4 1 (b) 3 4 1 2
the elements which have been oxidised (c) 3 4 2 1 (d) 3 2 1 4
and reduced respectively are 17. Strongest reducing agent is
(a) chlorine and oxygen
(a) K (b) Mg (c) Al (d) Ba
(b) oxygen and chlorine
(c) potassium and oxygen 18. In the reaction,
(d) oxygen and potassium 4Na + O 2 → 2Na 2O,
13. The compound that can work both as an sodium acts as a/an
oxidising and reducing agent is (a) oxidising agent (b) reducing agent
(a) KMnO 4 (b) H2O2 (c) complexing agent (d) None of these
(c) Fe2 (SO 4 ) 3 (d) K2Cr2O 7 19. Which reaction indicates the action of
14. Water molecule is formed by the reaction, HNO3 as oxidising agent?
(a) NaOH + HNO 3 → NaNO 3 + H2O
2H 2 + O 2 → 2H 2 O
(b) Ca(OH)2 + 2HNO 3 → Ca(NO 3)2 + 2H2O
What does happen in this reaction?
(c) C 6H6 + HNO 3 → C 6 H 5 NO2 + H2O
(a) Electrons are transferred from H to O-atom
(b) Electrons are transferred from O to H-atom (d) NaCl + HNO 3 → HCl + NaNO 3
(c) Electrons are accepted by H from O-atom 20. In the following reaction reducing
(d) Electrons are donated by O to H-atom agent is
15. Which of the following is not an example 14H + + Cr2 O 72– +3Ni → 2Cr 3+
of redox reaction? (NCERT Exemplar) + 7H 2 O + 3Ni 2+
(a) CuO + H2 → Cu + H2O (a) H+ (b) Cr2O2−
7 (c) H2O (d) Ni
(b) Fe2O 3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2
(c) 2K + F2 → 2KF 21. Which is the best description
(d) BaCl2 + H2 SO 4 → BaSO 4 + 2HCl behaviour of bromine in the given
equation?
16. Match the Column I (Reaction with
H2O + Br2 → HBr + HOBr
underlined species) with Column II
(a) Proton acceptor
(Type of change shown by underlined (b) Both oxidised and reduced
species) and choose the correct option (c) Oxidised
from the codes given below. (d) Reduced
Column I Column II
(Reactions) (Type of change)
22. In which of the following compounds,
nitrogen exhibits highest oxidation
A. 2Mg + O2 → 1. Removal of
hydrogen. state?
2MgO
(a) N2H4 (b) NH3
B. Mg + Cl 2 → 2. Removal of
(c) N3H (d) NH2OH
MgCl 2 electropositive
element.
23. Oxidation states of X, Y, Z are +2, +5
C. 2H2S+O2 → 3. Addition of and –2 respectively. The formula of
oxygen.
2S+2H2O the compound formed by these will be
D. 2KI +H2O + O3 → 4. Addition of (a) X2YZ6 (b) XY2 Z6
2KOH + I2 + O2 electronegative
element. (c) XY5 (d) X 3YZ4
24. In which of the following, Fe exhibits 32. The oxidation states of sulphur in
minimum oxidation state? H 2 SO4, HSO −3 and SO 2 Cl 2
(a) K 4Fe(CN) 6 respectively are
(b) Fe 3 O 4 (a) +6, + 4, + 6 (b) +6, + 6, + 4
(c) Fe(CO) 5 (c) +6, − 6, + 4 (d) −4, + 6, + 6
(d) FeSO 4 (NH4 )2 SO 4 .6H2O
33. The largest oxidation number exhibited
25. Which of the following have been by an element depends on its outer
arranged in the decreasing order of electronic configuration. With which
oxidation number of sulphur? of the following outer electronic
(a) Na2 S4O 6 > H2 S2O 7 > Na2 S2O 3 > S8 configurations the element will
(b) H2 SO 4 > SO2 > H2 S > H2 S2O 8
exhibit largest oxidation number?
(NCERT Exemplar)
(c) SO22 − > SO24− > SO23− > HSO 4− (a) 3d 14 s 2 (b) 3d 34 s 2
(d) H2 SO 5 > H2 SO 3 > SCl2 > H2 S (c) 3d 5 4 s 1 (d) 3d 5 4 s 2

26. In which of the following compounds, 34. Magnesium reacts with an element ( X )
an element exhibits two different to form an ionic compound. If the
oxidation states? ground state electronic configuration of
(a) NH2OH (b) NH4NO 3 ( X ) is 1s 2 2s 2 2 p 3 , the simplest formula
(c) N2H4 (d) N3H for this compound is
(a) Mg2 X (b) MgX2
27. State the oxidation number of carbonyl (c) Mg2 X 3 (d) Mg 3X2
carbon in methanal and methanoic acid
respectively. 35. The valency of Cr in [Cr(H 2 O)4 Cl 2 ] +
(a) 0 and 0 (b) 0 and + 2
ion is
(c) + 1 and + 2 (d) + 1 and + 3 (a) 3 (b) 1
(c) 6 (d) 5
28. +3 oxidation state is most common in …
(a) Ni (28) (b) Fe (26)
36. Match the Column I with Column II
(c) Zn (30) (d) Cu (29)
and select the correct option for
oxidation number of N-atom from the
29. In the reaction, 4Na + O 2 → 2Na 2 O, codes given below.
sodium acts as a/an
Column I Column II
(a) oxidising agent (b) reducing agent
(Compounds) (Oxidation number)
(c) complexing agent (d) None of these
A. NH2OH 1. –1
30. The value of oxidation numbers of Cl,
−1
in Cl 2 , NaOCl and ClO −3 are B. Mg3N2 2.
respectively. C. N2O 3. +5
(a) + 2, 0, + 5 (b) 0, + 2, + 5 D. N2O5 4. −3
(c) + 2, + 3, + 5 (d) 0, + 1, + 5
Codes
31. What is the average oxidation number A B C D
of carbon in carbon suboxide? (a) 1 3 4 2
4 10 2 (b) 2 4 3 1
(a) + (b) + (c) +2 (d) +
3 4 3 (c) 2 4 1 3
(d) 4 2 1 3
 37. In oxygen difluoride (OF2 ) and (a) Both Assertion and Reason are correct
dioxygen difluoride (O 2 F2 ), the oxygen statements and Reason is the correct
is assigned an oxidation number of explanation of the Assertion.
(a) +1 and +2 respectively (b) Both Assertion and Reason are correct
statements, but Reason is not the correct
(b) +2 and +2 respectively explanation of the Assertion.
(c) +1 and +1 respectively (c) Assertion is correct, but Reason is incorrect
(d) +2 and +1 respectively statement.
(d) Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct
38. Which of the following arrangements statement.
represent increasing oxidation number
of the central atom ? (NCERT Exemplar) 42. Assertion KMnO 4 is a stronger
(a) CrO , ClO , CrO24− , MnO −4
− − oxidising agent than K 2 Cr2 O7 .
2 3

(b) ClO −3 , CrO24− , MnO 4− , CrO2− Reason This is due to the increasing
(c) CrO2− , ClO 3− , MnO 4− , CrO24− stability of the lower species to which
(d) CrO24− , MnO 4− , CrO2− , ClO 3− they are reduced.

39. Which of the following reactions is 43. Assertion In the reaction between
represented in basic medium? potassium permanganate and potassium
iodide, permanganate ions act as
(a) MnO −4 (aq) + SO2 (g) → Mn2 + (aq) + HSO 4− (aq)
oxidising agent.
(b) H2O2 (aq) + Fe2 + (aq) → Fe 3+ (aq) + H2O (l)
(c) MnO –4 (aq) + I− (aq) → MnO2 (s ) + I2 (s )
Reason Oxidation state of manganese
3+ 2−
changes from +2 to +7 during the
7 + SO2 (g) → Cr (aq) + SO 4 (aq)
(d) Cr2O2–
reaction.
40. In the following redox reaction, 44. Assertion Average oxidation number of
xUO 2+ + Cr 2O 27− + yH + → I in KI 3 is − 1/3.
3+
aUO 2+
2 + z Cr + bH 2 O Reason KI 3 is made up of KI and I 2 . Each
the values of coefficients x , y and z species have different oxidation number.
respectively, are 45. Assertion PbCl 4 is a powerful oxidising
(a) 3, 8, 2 (b) 3, 8, 7 agent.
(c) 3, 2, 4 (d) 3, 1, 8
Reason PbCl 4 is more stable than PbCl 2 .
41. A mixture of potassium chlorate, oxalic
acid and sulphuric acid is heated. 46. Assertion In some cases oxygen shows
During the reaction which element positive oxidation number though it is
undergoes maximum change in an electronegative element.
oxidation number? Reason Fluorine is more electronegative
(a) S (b) H (c) Cl (d) C than oxygen.
47. Assertion H 2SO 4 cannot act as a
Assertion-Reasoning MCQs reducing agent.
Directions In the following questions Reason Sulphur cannot increase its
(Q.No. 42-55) a statement of Assertion oxidation number beyond + 6.
followed by a statement of Reason is
given. Choose the correct answer out of 48. Assertion Among halogens fluorine is
the following choices. the best oxidant.
 Reason Fluorine is the most Case Based MCQs
electronegative atom. (NCERT Exemplar)
56. Read the passage given below and
49. Assertion The two Fe atoms in Fe 3 O 4 answer the following questions :
have different oxidation numbers. The oxidation state of an individual atom
Reason Fe 2 + ions decolourise KMnO 4 is 0. The total oxidation state of all atoms
solution. in a neutral species is 0 and in an ion is
equal to the ion charge. Group 1 metals
50. Assertion In the species, Br3 O 8 each have an oxidation state of + 1 and group 2
of two extreme bromine exhibits an oxidation state of + 2.
oxidation state of + 6 and the middle The oxidation state of fluorine is − 1 in
bromine of + 4. compounds. Hydrogen generally has an
Reason The average of three oxidation oxidation state of + 1 in compounds.
numbers of bromine of the Br3 O 8 is16 / 3. Oxygen generally has an oxidation state of
− 2 in compounds.
51. Assertion Amongst the halogens, In binary metal compounds, group 17
fluorine cannot oxidise the element to elements have an oxidation state of − 1,
the highest oxidation state. group 16 elements of − 2, and group 15
Reason Due to small size of fluoride elements of − 3. The sum of the oxidation
ion, it is difficult to oxidise flouride ion states is equal to zero for neutral
to fluorine. Hence, reverse reaction compounds and equal to the charge for
polyatomic ion species. An atom is
takes place more easily.
oxidised if its oxidation number increases
52. Assertion The oxidation number of O and an atom is reduced if its oxidation
in O 3 is zero and the oxidation number number decreases.
of S in SO 3 is + 4. The atom that is oxidised is the reducing
Reason O 3 can act as an oxidising agent and the atom that is reduced is the
agent as well as a reducing agent but oxidising agent.
SO 2 can act only as an oxidising agent. (Note the oxidising and reducing agents
can be the same element or compound).
53. Assertion The formal oxidation Redox reactions are comprised of two
number of sulphur in Na 2S4 O 6 is 2.5. parts, a reduced half and an oxidised half,
Reason Two S-atoms are not directly that always occur together.
linked with O-atoms. The reduced half gains electrons and the
54. Assertion MnO −4 is reduced to Mn 2 + in oxidation number decreases, while the
acidic medium. oxidised half loses electrons and the
oxidation number increases.
Reason In acidic medium, following
The ion or molecule that accepts electrons
reaction takes place.
is called the oxidising agent, by accepting
KMnO 4 + H 2O → MnO 2 electrons it causes the oxidation of another
55. Assertion Cl 2 gas bleaches the articles species. conversely, the species that
permanently. donates electrons is called the reducing
agent; when the reaction occurs, it reduces
Reason Cl 2 is a strong reducing agent. the other species.
 The following questions (i-iv) are multiple To explain these changes a new concept,
choice questions. Choose the most called oxidation number is introduced.
appropriate answer : Oxidation number is defined as the charge
(i) One mole of acidified K2 Cr2 O7 on that an atom of the element has in its ion or
reaction with excess KI will liberate n appear to have when present in the
mole of I 2 , then the value of n is combined state with other atoms.
(a) 6 (b) 1 In other words, it is also defined as the
(c) 3 (d) 7 charge that an atom appear to have in a
(ii) When electrons are transferred from compound when all other atoms are
Zn to Cu2+ in copper sulphate removed as ions from the compound.
solution, the energy (heat) is The following steps are involved while
(a) absorbed calculating the oxidation number of an
(b) evolved
atom in a given compound/ion.
(c) consumed
(d) Both (a) and (b) Step I Write down the formula of given
(iii) Negative E s indicates that redox compound/ion leaving some space
between the atoms.
couple is
(a) weaker reducing agent than H+ / H2 couple Step II Write the oxidation state of each
(b) stronger reducing agent than H+ / H2 couple element above its atoms. Write down
(c) sronger oxidising agent than H+ / H2 couple x above the atom, oxidation state of
(d) weaker oxidising agent than H+ / H2 couple which we have to find out.
(iv) Which of the following statements Step III Multiply the oxidation numbers of
is/are incorrect? each element with the number of
(a) The reactants, which undergo oxidation atoms of that element present in the
and reduction are called reductant and compound.
oxidant respectively
Enclose the product in a bracket.
(b) In redox reaction, the oxidation number
of oxidant increases, while that of Step IV Equate the algebraic sum of the
reductant decreases oxidation numbers of all the atoms
(c) HNO2 acts as an oxidising as well as present in a compound to zero or to
reducing agent the charge in case of ionic species
(d) Oxidation is the process, in which charge on the ion.
electrons are lost Step V Solve the equation obtained for the
Or value of x.
In alkaline medium, ClO 2 oxidises The following questions (i-iv) are multiple
H2O 2 to O 2 and itself gets reduced choice questions. Choose the most
appropriate answer:
to Cl − . How many moles of H2O 2
(i) Highest oxidation state of Mn is present
are oxidised by 1 mole of ClO 2 ? in
(a) 1 (b) 1.5 (a) KMnO4 (b) K2MnO4
(c) 2.5 (d) 5 (c) Mn2O3 (d) MnO2

57. Read the passage given below and (ii) Identify the element which never has
positive oxidation number in any of its
answer the following questions :
compound?
The concept of electron transfer is found (a) Oxygen
unable to explain the redox changes or (b) Chlorine
electron shift in case of covalent (c) Fluorine
compounds. (d) Bromine
 (iii) When a manganous salt is fused with a (i) Assertion This reaction is redox
mixture of KNO 3 and solid NaOH, the reaction,
oxidation number of Mn changes, K 2Cr2O7 (aq ) + 3SO2 ( g ) + H 2 SO4 (aq ) →
from + 2 to Cr2 (SO4 )3 (aq ) + K 2 SO4 (aq ) + H 2O(l )
(a) + 4 (b) + 3
Reason Both oxidation and reduction
(c) + 6 (d) + 7
take place in the given reaction.
(iv) The brown ring complex compound is
(ii) Assertion The decomposition of
formulated as [Fe(H 2O) 5 NO]SO 4 .
hydrogen peroxide to form water and
What will be the oxidation state of
oxygen is an example of
iron in the given complex?
(a) + 2 (b) + 3
disproportionation reaction.
(c) + 4 (d) + 1 Reason The oxygen of peroxide is in
−1 oxidation state and it is converted to
Or zero oxidation state in O2 and −2
In which of the following reactions, oxidation state in H2 O.
there is no change in valency? (iii) Assertion In the species, Br3O 8 each
(a) SO2 + 2H2S → 2H2O + 3S of two extreme bromine exhibits
(b) 2Na + O2 → 2Na2O2
oxidation state of + 6 and the middle
(c) Na2O2 + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + H2O2
bromine of + 4.
(d) 4KClO3 → 3KClO4 + KCl
Reason The average of three oxidation
58. Read the passage given below and numbers of bromine of the Br3O 8 is
answer the following questions : 16/ 3.
In a redox reaction, the substance which (iv) Assertion In the reaction between
oxidises the other or which itself potassium permanganate and
undergoes reduction is called the oxidising potassium iodide, permanganate ions
agent and the substance that reduces the act as oxidising agent.
other and itself undergoes oxidation is Reason Oxidation state of manganese
called the reducing agent. e.g. changes from +2 to +7 during the
2HgCl 2 + SnCl 2 → Hg 2 Cl 2 + SnCl 4 reaction.
Thus, in the above example, HgCl 2 is an Or
oxidising agent (as it reduces) and SnCl 2 is Assertion A negative value of E ° means
a reducing agent (as it oxidises). that the redox couple is a weaker
In these questions (i-iv) a statement of reducing agent than the H + /H2 couple.
Assertion followed by a statement of Reason A negative E ° means that the
Reason is given. Choose the correct redox couple is stronger reducing agent
answer out of the following choices : than the H + /H2 .
(a) Assertion and Reason both are correct
statements and Reason is correct 59. Read the passage given below and
explanation for Assertion. answer the following questions :
(b) Assertion and Reason both are correct The real or imaginary charge which an
statements but Reason is not correct atom appears to have in its combined state
explanation for Assertion.
is called oxidation state or oxidation
(c) Assertion is correct statement but Reason
is incorrect statement.
number of that atom. Fraction oxidation
(d) Assertion is incorrect statement but
states are often used to represent the
Reason is correct statement. average oxidation states of several atom in
 a structure. These oxidation states are very Reason The oxygen of peroxide is in
helpful in finding the oxidation and −1 oxidation state and it is converted to
reduction process in redox reactions. zero oxidation state in O2 and −2
Redox reactions are of two main, i.e oxidation state in H2 O.
intermolecular redox reactions and (iii) Assertion The electrons are
intramolecular redox reactions. transferred from zinc to copper
The elements that show an increase in through the wire which connects the
oxidation number (hydrogen and chlorine two rods.
in the above reaction) are oxidised, while Reason Electricity flows through the
the elements that are reduced (oxygen and salt-bridge by migration of ions from
chlorine in the above reaction) show a one beaker to other.
decrease in their oxidation numbers from (iv) Assertion Redox couple is the
their initial values. combination of oxidised and reduced,
In these questions (i-iv) a statement of form of a substance involved in an
Assertion followed by a statement of oxidation or reduction half-cell.
Reason is given. Choose the correct Reason In the representation
answer out of the following choices : E s 3+ 2+ and E s 2+ , Fe 3+ / Fe 2+ and
Fe / Fe Cu / Cu
(i) Assertion Oxidation state of nitrogen
1 Cu 2+ / Cu are redox couples.
in N 3 H is − .
3 Or
Reason Nitrogen is less
Assertion Oxidation number of
electronegative than hydrogen.
hydrogen − 1 in CaH 2 .
(ii) Assertion The decomposition of
Reasons CaH 2 is a metal hydrides and
hydrogen peroxide to form water and
oxygen is an example of for hydrides, hydrogen is assigned the
disproportionation reaction. oxidation number of −1.

ANSWERS
Multiple Choice Questions
1. (d) 2. (a) 3. (d) 4. (a) 5. (a) 6. (a) 7. (a) 8. (b) 9. (b) 10. (c)
11. (c) 12. (b) 13. (b) 14. (a) 15. (d) 16. (b) 17. (a) 18. (b) 19. (c) 20. (d)
21. (b) 22. (c) 23. (b) 24. (c) 25. (d) 26. (b) 27. (b) 28. (b) 29. (b) 30. (d)
31. (a) 32. (a) 33. (d) 34. (d) 35. (a) 36. (c) 37. (d) 38. (a) 39. (c) 40. (a)
41. (c)

Assertion-Reasoning MCQs
42. (a) 43. (c) 44. (a) 45. (c) 46. (a) 47. (a) 48. (b) 49. (b) 50. (b) 51. (b)
52. (c) 53. (c) 54. (d) 55. (c)

Case Based MCQs

56. (i)-(c), (ii)-(b), (iii)-(b), (iv)-(b) or-(c) 57. (i)-(a), (ii)-(c), (iii)-(c), (iv)-(b) or-(c)
58. (i)-(a), (ii)-(a), (iii)-(b), (iv)-(c) or-(d) 59. (i)-(c), (ii)-(a), (iii)-(b), (iv)-(b) or-(b)
 EXPLANATIONS
1. Electrochemical processes for the extraction of 9. In oxidation process, oxidation number
highly reactive metals and non-metals, increases and number of electrons decreases.
manufacturing of chemical compounds like +3 0
caustic soda, operation of dry and wet batteries 10. 2 Co(OH)3 + Cd + 2H2O →
+ 2 + 2
and corrosion of metals fall within the range of 2Co(OH)2 + Cd(OH)2
redox processes.
2. Addition of oxygen/electronegative element and Increase in ON
removal of hydrogen/electropositive element Here, oxidation number of Cd increases from 0
takes place in oxidation. to +2, hence Cd is oxidised.
3. Reduction is a process which involves addition 11. Both oxidation and reduction are taking place in
of hydrogen or electropositive elements to a the following reaction,
substance or removal of oxygen or Oxidised (reducing agent)
electronegative element from a substance.
4. In the given reaction, removal of 0 0 + 1 −1
electronegative element, i.e. chlorine from ferric H2 + Br2 → 2H Br
chloride takes place. Hence, it is an example of
reduction process.
Reduced (oxidising agent)
2FeCl 3 ( aq ) + H2 ( g ) → 2FeCl 2 ( aq ) + 2HCl( aq )
H2 -reducing agent; Br2 -oxidising agent.
Removal of chlorine In other options, neither oxidation nor
(electronegative element)
reduction takes place because oxidation
5. H2 S + Cl 2 → 2HCl + S number of elements involved in reaction
remain same.
Addition of hydrogen +1 + 5 − 2 +1 −1 0
(reduction) 12. 2KClO3 → 2 KCl + 3 O2
Removal of hydrogen (oxidation)
Loss of e −
Thus, H2 S is oxidised and Cl 2 is reduced. (oxidation)
6. In the given reaction, Gain of e − (reduction)
2K4 [Fe(CN)6 ]( aq ) + H2O2( aq ) → 13. Oxygen in H2O2 has oxidation number −1 which
2K3[Fe(CN)6 ] ( aq ) + 2KOH( aq ) can increase or decrease.
Hence, it can act as both oxidising agent or
Removal of potassium (electropositive element) reducing agent.
So, here oxidation takes place due to removal of 14. Hydrogen is oxidised by loss of 1 electron
one potassium atom.
0 0 +1 –2
7. Oxidation is a process, which involves addition 2 H2 + O2 → 2 H2 O
of oxygen/electronegative element to a
substance or removal of hydrogen/electropositive
Oxygen is reduced by gain of 2 electrons
element from a substance.
e.g. 2Mg + O 2 → 2MgO In this reaction, hydrogen (H) has transferred
electrons to oxygen (O).
Addition of oxygen = Oxidation 15. Following are the examples of redox reaction :
8. CH2==CH2 + H2 → H3C — CH3 (a) CuO + H2 → Cu + H2O
(b) Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2
(Addition of hydrogen)
(c) 2K + F 2 → 2KF
Reduction of ethylene occurs due to the Option (d) is not an example of redox reaction.
addition of hydrogen.
16. The correct match is Here, oxidation number of bromine increases as
A → 3, B → 4, C → 1, D → 2 well as decreases, i.e. bromine is oxidised as
Oxidation (addition of oxygen) well as reduced.
22. Let, the oxidation state of nitrogen in the given
(A) 2Mg + O2 → 2MgO compounds be x.
x +1
Oxidation (addition of electronegative element) (a) N 2H4 , 2x + ( + 1) 4 = 0
2x = − 4
(B) Mg + Cl 2 → MgCl 2
x=−2
x +1
(C) 2H2S + O2 → 2S + 2H2O
(b) NH3 , x + ( + 1) 3 = 0
Reduction (removal of hydrogen) x=−3
x +1
(D) 2KI + H2O + O3 → 2KOH + I2 + O2 (c) N 3H, 3x + ( + 1) = 0
Oxidation (removal of electropositive element) 3x = − 1
17. Since, K contains only one electron in its x = − 1/ 3
x +1 − 2 + 1
outermost shell, it has higher tendency to donate (d) NH2OH,
it, i.e. has higher tendency to get oxidised.
Therefore, it is the strongest reducing agent x + ( + 1) 2 + ( − 2) + ( + 1) = 0
among the given elements. x + 2 − 2 +1= 0
18. 4 Na + O2 → 2Na 2O x + 1 = 0 ⇒ x = −1
The oxidation state of nitrogen is highest in N3H.
Loss of e − (oxidation) 23. We know that, the algebraic sum of the oxidation
In the above reaction, Na converts into (Na + ) states is always zero in neutral compound.
ion, i.e. Na donates its electron to oxygen atom.
So, it behaves as reducing agent. Oxidation states of X = + 2
+5 +3 Y =+5
19. C6H6 + HNO3 → C6H5 — NO2 + H2O Z = −2
So, the algebraic sum of total X, Y and Z should
Reduction (gain of e − ) be equal to zero which is found in XY 2Z 6 .
In this reaction, HNO3 behaves as an oxidising
XY 2Z 6 = + 2 + ( 5 × 2) + ( −2 × 6 )
agent while in rest of the reactions such as,
= + 2 + 10 − 12 = 0
(i) NaOH + HNO3 → NaNO3 + H2O
24. (a) K4 Fe(CN) 6 ⇒1 × 4 + x + ( −1)6 ⇒ 0 ; ∴x = 2
(ii) Ca(OH)2 + 2HNO3 → Ca(NO3 )2 + 2H2O
(b) Fe 3 O 4 ⇒ FeO. Fe 2 O 3 ⇒ + 2, + 3
(iii) NaCl + HNO3 → HCl + NaNO3 (c) Fe(CO) 5 ⇒ x + 0( 5) = 0 ; ∴x = 0
HNO3 neither behaves as oxidising agent nor as (d) FeSO 4 (NH4 ) 2 SO 4 .6H 2 O ⇒ x + (–2) + 0 + 0 = 0
reducing agent.
∴ x =+2
20. Increase in ON (oxidation +2)
Thus, in Fe(CO)5 , Fe shows minimum
+ +6 2– 3+ +2 oxidation number.
14H + Cr2O7 + 3Ni 2Cr + 7H2O + 3Ni 2.5 +6 +2 0
25. (a) Na 2 S4 O6; H 2 S2 O7 ; Na 2 S2 O3; S8
Decrease in ON (reduction) + 6 + 4 −2 +6
(b) H2 SO 4; SO 2; H2S; H2 S2 O8
As in this reaction Ni is oxidised to Ni 2+ and
+ 2 + 6 + 4 +6
reduced to Cr2 O 72 – , thus it acts as reducing agent.
−
(c) SO22; SO24; SO23− ; H SO−4
Loss of e (oxidation)
+ 6 + 4 + 2 −2
(d) H2 SO5; H2 SO3; SCl 2; H2 S
0 + – – +
21. H2O + Br2 → H Br + H O Br Thus, in option (d), compounds are arranged in
the decreasing order of oxidation number of
Gain of e − (reduction) sulphur.
 +2 +2
26. NH4 NO3 is actually NH+4 and NO−3 . It is an
0
31. O == C == C == C == O
ionic compound. Carbon suboxide
The oxidation number of nitrogen in the two In C3O2 , two C-atoms linked with oxygen atoms
species is different as shown below: are present in +2 oxidation state and central
In NH+4 , carbon has zero oxidation state.
4
⇒ x + ( 4 + 1) = +1 or x + 4 = +1 So, the average oxidation state of carbon is + .
3
or x = −3
Let, oxidation number of N in NO−3 is x 32. (i) Let oxidation number of S in H 2 SO 4 is x.
∴ +1 × 2 + x + ( −2) × 4 = 0
⇒ x + ( 3x − 2) = −1 or x − 6 = −1 or x = +1
x = 8 − 2 or x = + 6
27. Let the oxidation number of carbonyl carbon in Therefore, oxidation number of S in H 2 SO 4
methanal (HCHO) and methanoic acid (HCOOH) is +6.
is x and y respectively. (ii) Let oxidation number of S in HSO −3 is x.
In HCHO, 2 ( + 1) + x + ( − 2) = 0 ( +1) + x + ( −2) 3 = − 1
2 + x − 2= 0 ⇒x = 0 x = − 1 + 5 or x = + 4
In HCOOH, 2 ( + 1) + y + 2 ( − 2) = 0 Therefore, oxidation number of S in HSO−3
2+ y − 4= 0 ⇒y = + 2 is +4.
3d 4s (iii) Let the oxidation number of S in SO2Cl 2
28. (a) Ni(III) = 3d 7 4s 0 =
º
º

¼ ¼¼ be x.
3d 4s x + 2( −2) + 2( −1) = 0
(b) Fe(III) = 3d 5 4s 0 = ¼ ¼ ¼¼¼ x = +6
Therefore, in SO 2 Cl 2 the oxidation number of
+ 3 oxidation state of Fe provides the extra
sulphur is +6
stability due to half-filled d -orbitals.
3d 4s 33. Highest oxidation number of any transition
element = (n – 1) d electrons + ns electrons.
º
º
º
º

(c) Zn(III) = 3d 4s =
9 0
¼ Therefore, larger the number of electrons in the
3d 4s 3d -orbitals, higher is the maximum oxidation
º
º
º

(d) Cu(III) = 3d 4s =
8 0
¼¼ number.
(a) 3 d 1 4s 2 = 3
(0) +1
29. 4 Na+ O 2 → 2 Na 2 O (b) 3 d 3 4s 2 = 3 + 2 = 5

Loss of e − (oxidation)
(c) 3 d 5 4s 1 = 5 + 1 = 6 and
In this reaction, (d) 3 d 5 4s 2 = 5 + 2 = 7
Na converts into (Na + ) ion, i.e. Na donates its Thus, option (d) is correct.
electron to oxygen atom. So, it behaves as an 34. Given, electronic configuration of X =1s 2 2s 2 2 p 3
reducing agent. ∴ The valency of X will be 3.
30. Oxidation number of Cl in molecular state The valency of Mg is +2.
(i.e. in Cl 2 ) is zero. ∴ Magnesium reacts with element X to form an
Let, oxidation number of Cl in NaOCl is x. ionic compound with formula Mg 3 X 2 .
∴ 1 + ( −2) + x = 0 35. The valency of Cr in [Cr(H 2 O) 4 Cl 2 ]+ ion is x.
x = +1 x + 4 × ( 0 ) − 2 ( −1) = + 1
Let, oxidation number of Cl in ClO –3. x =1 + 2
∴ x + 3( −2) = − 1 x =3
x = +5 So, the valency of Cr in [Cr(H 2 O) 4 Cl 2 ]+ ion is 3.
36. The correct match is Thus, Cl is the element which undergoes
A → 2, B → 4, C → 1, D → 3. maximum change in the oxidation state from +5
to −1.
The oxidation number of N-atom in given
compounds are shown below : 42. Both Assertion and Reason are correct
–1+1–2+1 +2 –3 +1 –2 +5 –2 explanation and Reason is the correct explanation
NH2OH, Mg3N2 N2O N2O5 for Assertion.
43. The reaction of potassium permanganate and
–1 –3 –1 +5 potassium iodide is as follows :
+7
37. Electronegativity of fluorine is more than that of 10KI + 2K MnO4 + 8 H2 SO4 →
oxygen atom, so F gains electron with negative +2

charge. 2 Mn SO4 + 6 K 2 SO4 + 8 H2O + 5 I 2

In oxygen difluoride (OF2 ) and dioxygen Oxidation state of Mn decreases from +7 to +2.
difluoride (O2F2 ), oxygen transfers electron to Thus, Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
fluorine atom. Thus, 44. KI 3 dissociates into KI and I 2 .
Oxidation number of oxygen in OF 2 = + 2. ∴Average oxidation number of I
Oxidation number of oxygen in O2F 2 = + 1. −1 × 1 + 0 × 2 −1
= =
38. Writing the oxidation number (O.N.) of Cr, Cl 1+ 2 3
and Mn on each species in the four set of ions, Thus, either two values are reported separately or
then, one value is reported.
+3 +5 +6 +7
(a) Cr O–2 ,Cl O–3 ,Cr O2– 45. PbCl 2 is more stable than PbCl 4 or Pb 2 + is more
–
4 , Mn O4
+5 +6 +7 +3 stable than Pb 4 + (due to the inert pair effect)
(b) Cl O–3 ,Cr O2– – –
4 , Mn O4 ,Cr O2
2e − + Pb 4 + → Pb 2 + (Reduction)
+3 +5 +7 +6
(Oxidising agent)
(c) Cr O–2 ,Cl O–3 , Mn O–4 ,Cr O2–
4
Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect
+6 +7 +3 +5
(d) Cr O2– – – 3– statement.
4 , Mn O4 ,Cr O2 ,Cl O3
Only in the arrangement (a), the ON of central 46. Oxygen is the most electronegative element after
atom increases from left to right, therefore, fluorine. Therefore, in the compounds between
oxygen and fluorine, oxygen is found to show
option (a) is correct.
positive oxidation state.
+7 −1 +4 0
39. Mn O–4 ( aq ) + I−( aq ) → MnO2 ( s ) + I 2 ( s ) Both Assertion and Reason are correct statements
and Reason is the correct explanation of the
This reaction is represented in basic medium
+7 Assertion.
because in basic medium MnO−4 is reduced to 47. Maximum oxidation state of S is + 6, it cannot
+4 +7 +4
exceed beyond, it. Therefore it, cannot be further
MnO2 (i.e. Mn to Mn ), while in acidic medium,
oxidised.
MnO−4 is reduced from Mn7+ to Mn 2+ . Both Assertion and Reason are correct statements
40. The balanced chemical reaction is given as and Reason is the correct explanation of the
3UO2+ + Cr2O72− + 8H+ → Assertion.
3UO22+ + 2Cr 3+ + 4H2O 48. Among halogen F 2 is the best oxidant because it
Hence, the value of x , y and z are has the highest E ° value.
respectively 3, 8 and 2. Both Assertion and Reason are correct, but
41. When a mixture of potassium chlorate, oxalic Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
+ 2 + 2
acid and sulphuric acid is heated, the following
reaction occurs :
49. Fe3O 4 ≡≡ (FeO ⋅ Fe2 O 3 )
+1 +5 − 2 + 1+ 3− 2 +1 + 6 −2 ∆ The oxidation states of Fe in FeO and Fe2O 3 are
KClO3 + H2C2O4 + H2 SO4 → + 2 and + 3.
+ 1+ 6− 2 + 1− 1 + 4− 2 + 1− 2
K 2 SO4 + KCl + CO2 + H2O Fe2 + + MnO −4 → Fe3 + + Mn 2 +
(Pink) (Colourless)
 Both Assertion and Reason are correct 54. MnO −4 is reduced to MnO2 in a mild basic
statements, but Reason is not the correct medium or neutral medium whereas in an acidic
explanation of the Assertion. medium,
50. The structure of Br3O8 (tribromooctaoxide) is MnO−4 , is reduced to Mn 2 + and in a strong basic
medium, it is reduced to MnO24 − .
–2
O O–2 O–2 So, Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
–2
+6 +4 +6 55. Cl 2 is an oxidising agent. It bleaches the articles
O Br Br Br O–2 permanently by oxidation in presence of moisture.
–2
O O–2 O–2 Assertion is correct, but Reason is incorrect
statement.
Thus, oxidation state of two corner Br atoms is 56. (i) K 2Cr2O7 + Excess KI → Cr 3+ + H2O + nI 02
+6 and of middle one is +4. The difference in
+3e −
6+ 3+
oxidation states is due to difference in bonding Cr → Cr
situations. Cr 6+ accepts 3e − , so mole of I 2 = 3.
+ 6 + 4 + 6 16
Average oxidation state = = (ii) If zinc rod is dipped in copper sulphate
3 3
solution, then due to transfer of electron
Thus, both Assertion and Reason are correct from zinc to copper ion, heat is evolved.
but Reason is not the correct explanation of
Assertion. (iii) A negative E s means that the redox couple
is a stronger reducing agent than H+ /H2
51. Due to high electronegativity and high heat of
couple.
association, fluorine oxidises the elements to
their highest oxidation state. − E s = strong reducing agent
Both Assertion and Reason are correct + E s = weak reducing agent
statements, but Reason is not the correct (iv) Oxidant = oxidising agent = reduces itself by
explanation of the Assertion. increasing oxidation number.
52. SO 2 can act both as an oxidising and a reducing Reductant = reducing agent = oxidising itself,
agent. O 3 can act only as an oxidising agent. by decreasing oxidation number.
The oxidation number of O in O 3 is zero. It can Or
only decrease from zero to − 1 or − 2 but cannot In alkaline medium, the balanced equation is,
increase to + 2. Therefore, it can act as an
oxidising agent only. In SO 2, the oxidation 2ClO2 + 5H2O2 + 2OH– → 2Cl – + 5O2
number of S is + 4. It can have a minimum + 6H2O
oxidation number of − 2 and maximum of + 6. 2 moles of ClO2 oxidise 5 moles of H2O2
Its oxidation number either decreases or 5
increases and hence, it can act both as an ∴ 1 mole of ClO2 will oxidise = × 1 = 2.5.
2
oxidising and a reducing agent.
Assertion is correct, but Reason is incorrect 57. (i) Let the oxidation state of Mn be x.
statement. (a) KMnO 4 ,

O O + 1 + x + ( − 2) × 4 = 0
x −7 = 0
+ −  
0 0
+5 − + x =+7
53. NaO  S +
5
S  S  S  ONa
  (b) K 2 MnO 4 ,
O O ( + 1) × 2 + x + ( − 2) × 4 = 0
Formal oxidation number of sulphur x −6 = 0
2×5+ 2×0 x =+6
= = 2.5 (c) Mn 2 O 3 ,
4
Assertion is correct, but Reason is incorrect x × 2 + ( − 2) × 3 = 0
statement. 2x = + 6
x =+3
 (d) MnO 2 , x + ( − 2) × 2 = 0 Thus, both Assertion and Reason are correct
x =4 and Reason is the correct explanation of
Assertion.
Thus, oxidation state of Mn is highest in
(iii) The structure of Br3O8 (tribromooctaoxide) is
KMnO 4.
(ii) Fluorine is the most electronegative –2 O–2
O O–2
element. +6 +4 +6
–2
Hence, does not possess positive oxidation O Br Br Br O–2
number in any of its compound. –2
O O–2
( +2 )
O–2
(iii) Mn 2 + + 2NO −3 + 2OH− → Thus, oxidation state of two corner Br atoms
(+ 6)
is +6 and of middle one is +4. The
MnO 24 − + 2H2O + 2NO difference in oxidation states is due to
difference in bonding situations.
The oxidation number of Mn changes from
+ 6 + 4 + 6 16
+ 2 to + 6. Average oxidation state = =
3 3
(iv) Let oxidation state of Fe in complex is x.
Thus, both Assertion and Reason are correct
∴ x + 5 ( 0 ) + ( − 1) = − 2
but Reason is not the correct explanation of
or x =+3 Assertion.
Or (iv) The reaction of potassium permanganate
−2 0
(a) SO 2 + 2H2 S → 2H2O + 3 S and potassium iodide is as follows :
+7
0 0 +1 −1 10KI + 2K MnO4 + 8 H2 SO4 →
(b) 2 N a + O 2 → 2 Na 2 O 2 +2
+1 −1 +1 −1 2 Mn SO4 + 6 K 2 SO4 + 8 H2O + 5 I 2
(c) 2 Na 2 O 2 + H2SO 4 → Na 2 SO 4 + H2O 2
Oxidation state of Mn decreases from +7 to +2.
(no change in valency)
+ 5 +7 −1
Thus, Assertion is correct but Reason is
(d) 4K ClO 3 → 3KClO 4 + KCl incorrect.
Or
58. (i) The redox change in the given reaction is as
follows : As we know H+ / H2 couple has zero
Reduction standard reduction potential so, ions having
positive E ° value are weaker reducing agent,
K2Cr2O7 + 3SO2 + H2SO4 Cr2(SO4)3 while ions having negative E ° value are
(+6) (+4) (+3) (+6) stronger reducing agent. Thus, Assertion is
incorrect but Reason is correct.
Oxidation 59. (i) Let, oxidation state of N in N 3H be x.
+ K2SO4 + H2O
(+6) 3x + 1 = 0
1
∴ Both Assertion and Reason are correct x =−
and Reason is the correct explanation of 3
Assertion. Nitrogen is more electronegative than
(ii) hydrogen.
Oxidation ∴Assertion is correct but Reason is
–1 –2 0
2H2O2 2H2 O + O2 incorrect.
Reduction (ii)
Oxidation
–1 –2 0
Thus, the above reaction is an example of 2H2O2 2H2 O + O2
disproportionation reaction. Reduction
 Thus, the above reaction is an example of In the representation E °Fe 3 + / Fe 2 + and
disproportionation reaction.
E °Cu 2 + / Cu , Fe3 + /Fe2 + and Cu 2+ /Cu are
Both Assertion and Reason are correct and
redox couples.
Reason is the correct explanation of
Assertion. Both Assertion and Reason are correct
statements but Reason is not the correct
(iii) The electrons are transferred from Zn to
explanation of Assertion.
Cu 2+ through the metallic wire which
connects the two rods. Or
While electricity flows through the Oxidation number of elements in their
salt-bridge by migration of ions from one compounds or ions is obtained using some
beaker to other. rules, e.g. hydrogen is assigned oxidation
number of + 1 in general and − 1 for metal
Both Assertion and Reason are correct
hydrides.
statements but Reason is not the correct
explanation of Assertion. Both Assertion and Reason are correct
statements but Reason is not the correct
(iv) Redox couple is the combination of oxidised
explanation of Assertion.
and reduced form of a substance.