Question Detail
Question
Which element is oxidized in the reaction: MnO₂ + 4HCl → MnCl₂ + Cl₂ + 2H₂O?
Correct Answer
Option C is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
In HCl, Cl has an oxidation number of -1; in Cl₂, it is 0. This is an increase in oxidation number, so chlorine is oxidized. Mn goes from +4 to +2, so it is reduced.
Hint
Assign oxidation numbers to each element to see which one increases.