Understanding Oxidation
* Oxidation is the process of losing electrons.
* Reduction is the process of gaining electrons.
The Reaction
The reaction of hydrogen with iodine is:
H₂(g) + I₂(g) → 2HI(g)
Analyzing the Changes
* Hydrogen (H₂): In its elemental form, hydrogen has an oxidation state of 0. In hydrogen iodide (HI), hydrogen has an oxidation state of +1. This means hydrogen has *lost* an electron, indicating it has been oxidized.
* Iodine (I₂): In its elemental form, iodine also has an oxidation state of 0. In hydrogen iodide (HI), iodine has an oxidation state of -1. This means iodine has *gained* an electron, indicating it has been reduced.
Conclusion
Therefore, in the reaction of hydrogen with iodine, hydrogen (H₂) is oxidized.
