Question

An element L consists of molecules. When L is heated with iron metal, it forms a compound FeL. What chemical term would you use to describe the change undergone by L?

Answer 1

Definition of oxidation

Oxidation is defined as the process in which an atom or ion loses electrons

Definition of reduction

Reduction is the process in which an atom or an ion gains electrons.

L undergoes reduction

• When L is heated with iron metal. It forms FeL.
• Here Fe loses its two electrons and undergo oxidation
• L gains two electrons undergoes reduction

$$\begin{gathered} \mathrm{Fe}\to {\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-} \\ \mathrm{L}+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}\to {\mathrm{L}}^{2-} \\ {\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}+{\mathrm{L}}^{2-}\to \mathrm{FeL} \end{gathered}$$