Which is the best description of behaviour of bromine in the reaction given below?
\(H_2O + Br_2 \longrightarrow HBr + HOBr\)
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is option 2. Both oxidized and reduced.
In the given reaction:
\[ H_2O + Br_2 \longrightarrow HBr + HOBr \]
Bromine undergoes both oxidation and reduction. Let's break it down:
Oxidation: Bromine (\(Br_2\)) goes from an oxidation state of 0 to -1 in \(HOBr\). Therefore, bromine is oxidized.
Reduction: Bromine (\(Br_2\)) gains electrons to form \(HBr\), where bromine is in the -1 oxidation state. Therefore, bromine is reduced.
So, the best description of the behavior of bromine in this reaction is: 2. Both oxidized and reduced