The Reaction:
Ethene (C₂H₄) reacts with bromine (Br₂) to form 1,2-dibromoethane (C₂H₄Br₂).
The Redox Process:
* Oxidation: The carbon atoms in ethene undergo oxidation. Initially, they are bonded to hydrogen atoms (less electronegative). In the product, they form bonds with bromine atoms (more electronegative). This shift in bonding results in an increase in the oxidation state of the carbon atoms.
* Reduction: The bromine atoms in Br₂ undergo reduction. They go from a neutral state (Br₂) to a negative oxidation state (-1) in the product, 1,2-dibromoethane.
Key Points:
* Oxidation is the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state.
* Reduction is the gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state.
In summary: The reaction between ethene and bromine involves the transfer of electrons, leading to a change in oxidation states for both carbon and bromine. This confirms that it is a redox reaction.
