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Grade 12th passPhysical Chemistry

What is the n factor of given reaction:2{x2}(S) + 3{Y^+2}(aq)----> 2{x2}^+3(aq) + 3{Y}(S)

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8 Years agoGrade 12th pass
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1 Answer

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ApprovedApproved Tutor Answer1 Year ago

To determine the n factor of the given reaction, we first need to understand what the n factor represents. In the context of redox reactions, the n factor is defined as the total number of moles of electrons transferred per mole of the substance in the reaction. Let's break down the reaction you provided:

Analyzing the Reaction

The reaction is as follows:

2{x2}(S) + 3{Y^+2}(aq) → 2{x2}^+3(aq) + 3{Y}(S)

Identifying Changes in Oxidation States

To find the n factor, we need to look at the oxidation states of the elements involved:

  • {x2} in its elemental form (S) has an oxidation state of 0.
  • {Y^+2} has an oxidation state of +2.
  • {x2}^+3 in the product has an oxidation state of +3.
  • {Y} in its elemental form (S) has an oxidation state of 0.

Calculating Electron Transfer

Now, let's analyze the changes:

  • For {x2}: The oxidation state changes from 0 to +3. This means each mole of {x2} loses 3 electrons. Since there are 2 moles of {x2}, the total loss of electrons is:
    • 2 moles × 3 electrons = 6 electrons.
  • For {Y^+2}: The oxidation state changes from +2 to 0. This means each mole of {Y^+2} gains 2 electrons. Since there are 3 moles of {Y^+2}, the total gain of electrons is:
    • 3 moles × 2 electrons = 6 electrons.

Determining the n Factor

Since the total number of electrons lost by {x2} equals the total number of electrons gained by {Y^+2}, we can conclude that:

  • The n factor for the reaction is the total number of electrons transferred, which is 6.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the n factor of the given reaction is 6, as it represents the total number of electrons transferred during the reaction. This understanding is crucial in stoichiometry and balancing redox reactions, where electron transfer plays a significant role.