Question

Substances X2, Y2, and Z2 can all act as oxidizing agents (analogous to Cl2, Br2, and I2). In solution X2 is green, Y2 is yellow, and Z2 is red. In the reactions in which they participate, they are reduced to 2X–, 2Y–, and 2Z– ions, all of which are colorless. A solution of X2 is mixed with one containing Y– ions. The color of the mixed solution changes from green to yellow.

a. Write the balanced, net equation for the reaction.

b. Which species is oxidized? (either X2, X–, Y2 or Y–)

c. Which species is the oxidizing agent?

d. Identify the stronger oxidizing agent, X2 or Y2, and briefly explain your reasoning

e. It is also determined in another experiment that Z2 is a weaker oxidizing agent than Y2. Which one statement below best describes what you would observe if you mix X2 with Z–? Briefly explain your choice.

i. The green mixture would change to red as Z2 is formed.

ii. The green mixture would not change as X2 will not react.

iii. The color change cannot be predicted with the information given.