Indicate whether each of the following statements is true or false: (c) An oxidizing agent is needed to convert CO into CO2.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of oxidation: Oxidation involves the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion.
2. Identify the oxidation states: In CO, carbon has an oxidation state of +2, and in CO2, carbon has an oxidation state of +4.
3. Determine the change in oxidation state: The conversion of CO to CO2 involves an increase in the oxidation state of carbon from +2 to +4.
4. Recognize the role of an oxidizing agent: An oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons and is reduced in a chemical reaction, facilitating the oxidation of another substance.
5. Conclude the necessity of an oxidizing agent: Since the conversion of CO to CO2 involves the oxidation of carbon, an oxidizing agent is required to accept the electrons lost by carbon.

Key Concepts

Oxidation and Reduction

Oxidation and reduction are chemical processes that involve the transfer of electrons between substances. Oxidation refers to the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons. In the context of the question, converting carbon monoxide (CO) to carbon dioxide (CO2) involves the oxidation of CO, where it loses electrons.

Oxidizing Agent

An oxidizing agent is a substance that facilitates oxidation by accepting electrons from another substance. In the reaction converting CO to CO2, an oxidizing agent is necessary to provide the means for CO to lose electrons and thus be oxidized. Common oxidizing agents include oxygen, chlorine, and potassium permanganate.

Combustion Reactions

Combustion reactions are a type of chemical reaction where a substance reacts with oxygen, often producing heat and light. The conversion of CO to CO2 typically occurs during combustion processes, where CO is oxidized to CO2 in the presence of an adequate supply of oxygen, highlighting the role of oxidizing agents in these reactions.