Which of the following reactions is NOT an example of oxidation?

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option B: $2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$. Oxidation is defined as the gain of oxygen, loss of hydrogen, or loss of electrons in a chemical reaction. Decomposition of Silver Chloride ($2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$) is an example of a thermal/photolytic decomposition reaction, where the oxidation state of Chlorine changes, but the overall process is primarily a reduction of silver ions and not an oxidation process of the compound itself; however, in the context of this specific elementary chemistry question, it is classified as a decomposition reaction (which is not an oxidation reaction).

Step-by-Step Solution & Concepts:
Oxidation is defined as the gain of oxygen, loss of hydrogen, or loss of electrons in a chemical reaction. Decomposition of Silver Chloride ($2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$) is an example of a thermal/photolytic decomposition reaction, where the oxidation state of Chlorine changes, but the overall process is primarily a reduction of silver ions and not an oxidation process of the compound itself; however, in the context of this specific elementary chemistry question, it is classified as a decomposition reaction (which is not an oxidation reaction).

Working Principle: In the reaction $2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$, the compound Silver Chloride decomposes into metallic Silver and Chlorine gas. This is a decomposition reaction triggered by light or heat. Conversely, reactions like $Mg + O_2 \rightarrow 2MgO$, $C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2$, and $2Cu + O_2 \rightarrow 2CuO$ are clear examples of combustion or oxidation where elements directly react with oxygen to form oxides.

Key Formulas: $2AgCl \xrightarrow{light} 2Ag + Cl_2$ — Decomposition of silver chloride; $Mg + O_2 \rightarrow 2MgO$ — Oxidation of magnesium; $C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2$ — Oxidation of carbon

Key Points: Oxidation often involves adding oxygen or removing hydrogen.; Decomposition reactions break a single compound into two or more simpler substances.; The decomposition of AgCl is used in black and white photography.; Combustion reactions are a specific, exothermic type of oxidation.

Applications: Silver chloride decomposition in traditional photography; Oxidation reactions in industrial metal extraction and respiration

Additional Info: Option B represents a decomposition reaction, while A, C, and D are direct oxidation (combination) reactions.. In $2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$, silver is reduced ($Ag^+ \rightarrow Ag^0$) and chloride is oxidized ($Cl^- \rightarrow Cl^0$); however, as a whole process, it is categorized as decomposition.

Answer: B is correct — the reaction $2AgCl \rightarrow 2Ag + Cl_2$ is a decomposition reaction, not a direct oxidation process like the others.

Exam Tip: Always check if the reaction is adding Oxygen. If it's breaking a compound down, it's likely decomposition, not oxidation.

Examoogle · Answer

Option A: $Mg + O_2 \rightarrow 2MgO$

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Option C: $C + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2$

Examoogle · Answer

Option D: $2Cu + O_2 \rightarrow CuO$

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