Question

Given the balanced ionic equation representing a reaction:

In this reaction, electrons are transferred from


A)
Al to Mg2+

B)
Al3+ to Mg

C)
Mg to Al3+

D)
Mg 2+ to Al

pls explain

Answer 1

2Al³⁺ (aq) + 3 Mg⁰ (s) --> 3Mg²⁺ (aq) + 2Al⁰ (s)

Al³⁺ +3e⁻ ------> Al⁰
Al had positive charge and them it became neutral, that means that it took 3 negative particles (electrons). (+3-3=0)
We have 2 Al³⁺, and they take 3*2 =6 electrons

Mg⁰ -----> Mg²⁺ + 2e⁻
Mg was neutral atom, and them it became positive ion, that means it lost electrons . (0=+2-2)
We have 3Mg, and they loose 2*3=6 electrons.

Mg loose electrons, Al³⁺ takes electrons, that means that electrons are transferred from Mg to Al³⁺.

Answer is C).