The discussion revolves around identifying which half-equation represents oxidation and which represents reduction in electrochemical reactions. Participants explore the use of standard reduction potentials and mnemonic devices related to electron transfer.
Participants express some agreement on the definitions of oxidation and reduction, but there is no consensus on the necessity of using the standard reduction potentials table for determining the reactions in the given half-equations.
Some assumptions about the context of the half-equations and their application in electrochemical cells remain unaddressed, and the discussion does not resolve the necessity of the standard reduction potentials table.
Procrastinate said:When a question with two half equations set out like below, how do I tell which one is oxidising and which one is reducing? Do I have to apply the standard reduction potentials table?
Co2+ + 2e- -> CO (s)
Ag+ +e- -> Ag (s)
Thank you.
gabriels-horn said:Remember, lose electrons oxidized, gain electrons reduced
Procrastinate said:Do I have to apply the standard reduction potentials table?