Question

Hg₂Cl₂ (s) + SnCl₄ (aq) → 2HgCl₂ (aq) +SnCl₂(aq)
​​ Removal of
electropositive element
How is this an oxidation reaction? And which element is oxidized? Please explain this reaction step by step.

Answer 1

The oxidation state of Cl is -1 (always since it is a halogen unless and until it occurs in special forms)
On reactant side
The oxidation state of Hg is +1
The oxidation state of Sn is +4
On product side
The oxidation state of Hg is +2
The oxidation state of Sn is +2
Since the oxidation number of Hg increased it is oxidized and since the oxidation number of Sn is reduced it is reduced. This is a redox reaction since both oxidation and reduction occurred.