Question

Select True or False: PbO2 is oxidized in this process. (Batteries in our cars generate electricity by the following chemical reaction.) Pb + PbO2 + 2H2SO4 → 2PbSO4 + 2H2O

Answer 1

Answer :  The given statement is false.

Explanation :

Redox reaction or Oxidation-reduction reaction : It is defined as the reaction in which the oxidation and reduction reaction takes place simultaneously.

Oxidation reaction : It is defined as the reaction in which a substance looses its electrons. In this, oxidation state of an element increases. Or we can say that in oxidation, the loss of electrons takes place.

Reduction reaction : It is defined as the reaction in which a substance gains electrons. In this, oxidation state of an element decreases. Or we can say that in reduction, the gain of electrons takes place.

Reducing agent : It is defined as the agent which helps the other substance to reduce and itself gets oxidized. Thus, it will undergo oxidation reaction.

Oxidizing agent : It is defined as the agent which helps the other substance to oxidize and itself gets reduced. Thus, it will undergo reduction reaction.

The given chemical reaction is,

$Pb+PbO_2+2H_2SO_4\rightarrow 2PbSO_4+2H_2O$

In this reaction, the oxidation state of Pb is (0), oxidation state of Pb in $PbO_2$ is (+4) and oxidation state of Pb in $PbSO_4$ is (+2).

The oxidation-reduction half reaction will be :

Oxidation : $Pb\rightarrow Pb^{2+}+2e^-$

Reduction : $Pb^{4+}+2e^-\rightarrow Pb^{2+}$

In this reaction, $PbO_2$ shows reduction that means it is reduced and Pb shows oxidation that means it is oxidized.

Hence, the given statement is false.