Question

In the reaction 2Na + Cl2 ---> 2 Na++ 2Cl- what species is oxidized

Answer 1

The reaction is:

2Na + Cl2 ---> 2 Na+ + 2Cl-
The specie that is oxidized is the one whose oxidation number increased wherein it is shown by sodium or Na. Chlorine or Cl, on the other hand, represents the substance being reduce where there is a change from a neutral charge to -1.