Question

In the reaction: $4Fe + 3O_2 \rightleftharpoons 4Fe^{3+} + 6O_2^{2-}$ which of the following statement is incorrect?

• A. Metallic iron is a reducing agent
• B. $Fe^{3+}$ is an oxidising agent
• C. It is a redox reaction
• D. Metallic iron is reduced to $Fe^{3+}$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$4 Fe +3 O _{2} \rightleftharpoons 4 Fe ^{3+}+6 O _{2}^{2-}$

In this redox reaction, Iron is acting as a reducing agent (as it is giving out electrons) i.e. $Fe \rightarrow Fe ^{3+} + 3 e^{-}$

As $Fe$ is readily converted to $Fe ^{3+}$ therefore it is oxidised.