Why is bubble present, in this redox reaction?

In summary, the conversation discusses the formation of a brown substance and bubbles when magnesium and iron are placed in a yellow solution. The net ionic equation for this reaction is provided and the question of why bubbles are formed and what the brown substance is are posed. The suggested answer is that the brown substance is likely iron oxide, or rust.
  • #1
Nope
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0

Homework Statement


In the lab, i saw that when Mg(s) attach with Fe(s) nail in a yellow solution( probably indicator), after one day, the brown substance and bubble are formed.
My net ionic equation is
SOA: O2(g) +2H2O(l) +4e -->4OH-
SRA: Mg(s) --> Mg2+ +2e
NIE: O2(g) +2H2O(l) +2Mg(s)-->4OH- +2Mg2+
Can anyone explain why is bubble formed? and what is the brown substance?(is it MgO or Mg(OH)2, or Fe something??)
Thanks

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
I immagine it might simply be iron oxide... rust
 
  • #3


The presence of bubbles in this redox reaction is likely due to the production of hydrogen gas (H2). This gas is formed when the magnesium (Mg) metal is oxidized to Mg2+ ions, releasing electrons. These electrons then react with water (H2O) and oxygen (O2) to form hydroxide ions (OH-) and hydrogen gas. This can be represented by the net ionic equation given in the question: O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 2Mg(s) --> 4OH- + 2Mg2+ + H2(g).

The brown substance that is formed is likely a combination of iron (Fe) ions and hydroxide ions (OH-). This is because the iron nail is also being oxidized in the reaction, forming Fe2+ ions. These ions then react with the hydroxide ions produced from the reaction of magnesium with water and oxygen. This can be represented by the overall reaction: Mg(s) + Fe(s) + 2H2O(l) + O2(g) --> 2Mg2+(aq) + 2Fe2+(aq) + 4OH-(aq).

In summary, the bubbles are formed due to the production of hydrogen gas from the reaction of magnesium with water and oxygen. The brown substance is a combination of iron and hydroxide ions formed from the oxidation of the iron nail.
 

Related to Why is bubble present, in this redox reaction?

1. Why does a bubble form during a redox reaction?

A bubble forms during a redox reaction due to the evolution of a gas as a product of the reaction. This gas can be a result of a displacement reaction, where a more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compound, or a decomposition reaction, where a compound breaks down into smaller molecules, including gases.

2. What causes bubbles to form in a redox reaction?

Bubbles form in a redox reaction due to the release of gas as a product. This release of gas can be a result of the oxidation or reduction of a substance, which involves the transfer of electrons and the formation of new chemical bonds. The formation of bubbles can also indicate a change in the physical state of a substance, such as a liquid turning into a gas.

3. How do bubbles affect the outcome of a redox reaction?

The formation of bubbles can affect the outcome of a redox reaction by altering the reaction rate and changing the concentration of reactants. Bubbles can also affect the physical properties of the reaction, such as its appearance and texture. In some cases, bubbles can also indicate the completion of a reaction, especially in cases where a gas is a product of the reaction.

4. Can bubbles be harmful in a redox reaction?

In some cases, bubbles can be harmful in a redox reaction. For example, if the reaction is carried out in a closed container, the build-up of gas bubbles can cause pressure to increase, leading to an explosion. In other cases, the gas released from the reaction can be toxic or flammable, posing a danger to those conducting the experiment.

5. How can we control the formation of bubbles in a redox reaction?

The formation of bubbles in a redox reaction can be controlled by adjusting the reaction conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and concentration of reactants. In some cases, a catalyst can be used to speed up the reaction and minimize the formation of bubbles. Additionally, using a larger reaction vessel or conducting the reaction in an open environment can also help control the formation of bubbles.

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