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Ch.4 - Reactions in Aqueous Solution
Chapter 4, Problem 8

Which of these statements is true?
a. If a compound is oxidized, it is gaining electrons.
b. If a base is neutralized, it is gaining protons.
c. Elements that are metals cannot be oxidized.
d. If hydrogen gas is generated in a reaction, it must be an acid–base reaction.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of oxidation. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons, not the gain. Therefore, statement a is false.
Step 2: Consider the process of neutralization. A base is neutralized when it reacts with an acid, typically resulting in the formation of water and a salt. This involves the base accepting protons (H+ ions), so statement b is true.
Step 3: Evaluate the oxidation of metals. Metals can indeed be oxidized; in fact, they are often oxidized in reactions such as corrosion or when they react with nonmetals. Therefore, statement c is false.
Step 4: Analyze the generation of hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas can be produced in various types of reactions, including redox reactions and acid-metal reactions, not just acid-base reactions. Therefore, statement d is false.
Step 5: Conclude which statement is true based on the analysis of each option.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Oxidation and Reduction

Oxidation refers to the loss of electrons by a substance, while reduction is the gain of electrons. In redox reactions, one species is oxidized and another is reduced. Understanding this concept is crucial for evaluating statements about electron transfer in chemical reactions.
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Acid-Base Neutralization

Neutralization is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of water and a salt. In this process, the acid donates protons (H+) to the base. Recognizing the roles of acids and bases helps clarify statements regarding proton transfer in reactions.
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Properties of Metals

Metals are typically characterized by their ability to lose electrons and form positive ions. While metals can undergo oxidation, the statement that they cannot be oxidized is incorrect. Understanding the behavior of metals in chemical reactions is essential for evaluating their oxidation states.
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