Exploring Redox Reactions: Are All Reactions Redox?

In summary, reactions are governed by the valence electrons of the atoms involved and redox reactions only occur when there is an exchange of electrons or a change in oxidation numbers. However, acid-base reactions are an example of a non-redox reaction, where ions reorganize and associate with other ions. These reactions occur due to the attractive forces between charged units. Chemical bonds are also important to understand in regards to reactions.
  • #1
Jules18
102
0
I was taught in high school that all reactions are governed by the valence electrons. of the atoms involved.

Then I was taught that the term "redox reaction" applied only to rxns where e- were exchanged, or oxidation numbers were changed.

But the first fact would lead me to believe that all rxns had to be redox. Why else would rxns occur if the electron configurations didn't get to become more stable?

Can anyone think of any rxns that aren't redox?

~Jules~
 
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  • #2
Acid-base reactions are not redox reactions, as an example.
 
  • #3
then why do they even happen?
 
  • #4
Read about chemical bonds. Some units are ions, charged units which fit with each other because of opposite charges attracting. In ionic rearrangement reactions, ions regroup to be associated with other ions. Oxidation-Reduction reactions happen differently. Charges change during the reaction.
 
  • #5
ooohhh k
 

1) What is a redox reaction?

A redox reaction, also known as an oxidation-reduction reaction, is a chemical reaction in which there is a transfer of electrons between two or more reactants. The reactant that loses electrons is oxidized, while the reactant that gains electrons is reduced.

2) How do you determine if a reaction is a redox reaction?

A reaction is considered a redox reaction if there is a change in oxidation states of the reactants. This can be determined by looking at the oxidation numbers of each element before and after the reaction. If there is a change in oxidation number, then the reaction is a redox reaction.

3) Are all reactions redox reactions?

No, not all reactions are redox reactions. Some reactions involve only physical changes or changes in bonding without any transfer of electrons. However, many chemical reactions, including combustion, corrosion, and metabolism, are redox reactions.

4) What is the role of oxygen in redox reactions?

Oxygen is a very common oxidizing agent in redox reactions. It readily accepts electrons from other reactants, causing them to become oxidized. This is why oxygen is often seen as a reactant in combustion reactions.

5) Can redox reactions be reversed?

Yes, redox reactions can be reversed. This is known as a reduction-oxidation or redox reaction cycle. In this cycle, the oxidized reactants are reduced back to their original form, and the reduced reactants are oxidized back to their original form. This process can continue back and forth as long as there is a supply of reactants and an external energy source.

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