Question

Which of the following equations best represents a reduction of molybdenum?

1) MoO₂ + H₂O → H₂MoO₃
2) MoO₂ + 4 H₂ → Mo + 2H₂O
3) 2MoO₂ + O₂ → 2MoO₃
4) MoO₂ + 4H+ → Mo⁽⁴⁺⁾ + 2H₂O

Answer 1

The equation that represents reduction of molybdenum is MoO₂ + 4 H₂ → Mo + 2H₂O.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct equation that represents reduction of molybdenum is option 2) MoO₂ + 4 H₂ → Mo + 2H₂O.

In this equation, molybdenum is being reduced because it is changing from a higher oxidation state (+4) in MoO₂ to a lower oxidation state (0) in Mo.

The reaction is balanced because both sides of the equation have the same number of each type of atom.