In the reaction MnO₂ + 4HCl → MnCl₂ + 2H₂O + Cl₂, what is being reduced?
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A.
Hydrogen (H)
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B.
Chlorine (Cl)
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C.
Oxygen (O)
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D.
Manganese (Mn)
Correct Answer:
D. Manganese (Mn)
Explanation:
The correct answer is Option D: Manganese (Mn).
In the chemical reaction MnO2 + 4HCl → MnCl2 + 2H2O + Cl2, the substance being reduced is manganese. Reduction is defined as the gain of electrons or a decrease in the oxidation state of an element. In the reactant manganese dioxide (MnO2), manganese has an oxidation state of +4. As the reaction proceeds to form manganese(II) chloride (MnCl2), the oxidation state of manganese drops to +2. This reduction occurs because the manganese atoms accept electrons during the process. Meanwhile, chlorine in the hydrochloric acid (HCl) is oxidized as its oxidation state increases from -1 to 0 in the form of chlorine gas (Cl2).
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