Oxidation and reduction
2 marks · EasyExplain in terms of electrons what happens to sodium in the following reaction:
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Sodium atoms each lose one electron to form Na^+ ions; they are oxidised.
Also accept: Sodium loses electrons and is oxidised.
Common mistakes: Sodium gains electrons; Sodium is reduced
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States sodium loses one electron (or loses electrons).
A1 · 1 mark · States sodium is oxidised or forms Na^+ ions.
Worked solution
Each sodium atom loses one electron to become a Na^+ ion, showing oxidation as loss of electrons.