The equation for a reaction that occurs during the extraction of iron from iron ore is
$$\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightarrow 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text{CO}_2(g)$$
During this reaction the oxidation number of iron changes from
A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 14 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 14
The equation for a reaction that occurs during the extraction of iron from iron ore is
$$\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightarrow 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The equation for a reaction that occurs during the extraction of iron from iron ore is
$$\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightarrow 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text{CO}_2(g)$$
During this reaction the oxidation number of iron changes from
A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 14 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. +3 to 0, and CO is the reductant.
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Answer
In this reaction, iron is originally in the +3 oxidation state in Fe₂O₃ and is reduced to the 0 oxidation state in elemental Fe. The oxidation state change confirms that iron (Fe) undergoes reduction. Additionally, CO acts as a reducing agent by donating electrons; therefore, it is classified as the reductant.
Step 2
B. +6 to 0, and CO is the reductant.
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Answer
This option is incorrect as iron does not change from +6 to 0 in this reaction; it changes from +3 to 0.
Step 3
C. +3 to 0, and CO is the oxidant.
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This choice is also incorrect. While iron is indeed reduced from +3 to 0, CO cannot be the oxidant, as it is actually being oxidized to CO₂, making it a reductant.
Step 4
D. +6 to 0, and CO is the oxidant.
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Answer
This statement is erroneous since iron does not start at a +6 oxidation state in this reaction; it starts at +3. Thus, this option is not valid.
