Edexcel A Level Chemistry

Revision Notes

6.1.1 Reduction & Oxidation

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Reduction & Oxidation

  • To recap, there are three definitions of oxidation and reduction  used in different branches of chemistry
  • Oxidation and reduction can be used to describe any of the following processes

Definitions and Examples of Oxidation & Reduction

Electrochemistry OIL RIG Diagram, downloadable AS & A Level Chemistry revision notes

Use the acronym "Oil Rig" to help you remember the definitions of oxidation and reduction

  • s-block elements are usually oxidised by losing electrons to form 1+ and 2+ ions

Na → Na+ + e 

Ca → Ca2+ + 2e 

  • p-block metals typically undergo oxidation, by losing electrons, to form positive ions
    • p-block metal ions can have a charge that is consistent with their group of the Periodic Table

Al → Al3+ + 3e 

    • p-block metal ions can also form common ions with a charge that is not consistent with their group

Sn → Sn2+ + 2e 

  • p-block non-metals are usually reduced, by gaining electrons, to form negative ions 
    • p-block non-metals form ions with a charge that can be calculated by (the group number - 8)

F + e- → F (group 7 - 8 = -1)

O + 2e → O2- (group 6 - 8 = -2)

  • d-block elements can form various ions due to their variable oxidation states
    • d-block elements will usually be oxidised, by losing electrons, to form positive ions, e.g. Cu2+, Cr3+, V5+

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