Question

the elements iron and oxygen can react to form the compound iron oxide. what type of reaction is this? please explain.

Answer 1

your reaction
.. Fe + O2 ---> FexOy
for this reaction..
.. the Fe on the left is in the 0 oxidation state
.. the Fe on the right is in the +(2y/x) oxidation state
.. the O on the left is in the 0 oxidation state
.. the O on the right is in the -2 oxidation state
meaning
.. the O is reduced... . . (it's reduced in oxidation state)
.. the Fe is oxidized.. . .(oxidation state increased)
this is a REDOX reaction

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AND.. it's also a synthesis reaction.. (aka combination reaction)

Answer 2

Oxidation reaction

Step-by-step explanation:

Rust is formed when iron reacts with oxygen in moist air. The following chemical equation represents the reaction: 4Fe + 3O2 → 2Fe2O3. Water is necessary for the oxidation reaction to occur and to facilitate transport of the electrons