For the reaction Al(s) + Ni2+(aq) → Ni(s) + Al3+(aq), which species represents the oxidation half-reaction?

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Multiple Choice

For the reaction Al(s) + Ni2+(aq) → Ni(s) + Al3+(aq), which species represents the oxidation half-reaction?

Explanation:
Oxidation is the loss of electrons. In this reaction, aluminum metal loses electrons to form Al3+(aq), so the oxidation half-reaction is Al(s) → Al3+(aq) + 3 e-. The oxidation state of aluminum rises from 0 to +3, signaling oxidation. The species that gains electrons is nickel(II) ion, which is reduced: Ni2+(aq) + 2 e- → Ni(s). If you tried to describe oxidation of nickel metal or reduction of aluminum ions, those would not match the actual electron flow in this equation.

Oxidation is the loss of electrons. In this reaction, aluminum metal loses electrons to form Al3+(aq), so the oxidation half-reaction is Al(s) → Al3+(aq) + 3 e-. The oxidation state of aluminum rises from 0 to +3, signaling oxidation. The species that gains electrons is nickel(II) ion, which is reduced: Ni2+(aq) + 2 e- → Ni(s). If you tried to describe oxidation of nickel metal or reduction of aluminum ions, those would not match the actual electron flow in this equation.

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