Question

Which of the following statement is INCORRECT for the concept of oxidation?

• A. Addition of oxygen
• B. Removal of hydrogen
• C. Decreases in number of positive charges
• D. Decreases in number of negative charges
• E. Removal of an electron

Hint:

Oxidation means loss of electrons, gain of oxygen, loss of hydrogen, or increase in oxidation number. Reduction is the opposite process.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Oxidation is a chemical process that can be defined in several ways. The most fundamental definition involves the loss of electrons, which leads to an increase in the oxidation state of an element. We need to identify which of the given statements does not correctly describe oxidation.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each definition:

(A) Addition of oxygen: This is a classical definition of oxidation. For example, when magnesium burns, it combines with oxygen: 2Mg + O\(_2\) \(\rightarrow\) 2MgO. Here, Mg is oxidized. This is a correct description.

(B) Removal of hydrogen: This is another classical definition. For example, in the reaction H\(_2\)S + Cl\(_2\) \(\rightarrow\) 2HCl + S, hydrogen is removed from sulfur. Sulfur is oxidized. This is a correct description.

(C) Decreases in number of positive charges: A decrease in positive charge means gaining electrons. For example, Fe\(^{3+}\) + e\(^-\) \(\rightarrow\) Fe\(^{2+}\). Gaining electrons is the definition of reduction, not oxidation. Therefore, this statement is INCORRECT.

(D) Decreases in number of negative charges: A decrease in negative charge means losing electrons. For example, 2Cl\(^-\) \(\rightarrow\) Cl\(_2\) + 2e\(^-\). The charge on each chlorine atom goes from -1 to 0. This involves a loss of electrons and is a form of oxidation. This is a correct description.

(E) Removal of an electron: This is the modern, electronic concept of oxidation. Loss of electrons is oxidation (LEO - Loss of Electrons is Oxidation). For example, Na \(\rightarrow\) Na\(^+\) + e\(^-\). This is a correct description.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The statement "Decreases in number of positive charges" describes reduction, not oxidation. Therefore, it is the incorrect statement for the concept of oxidation. This corresponds to option (C).