In the reaction represented by the equation. 5Fe 2+ (aq) + MnO- 4(aq) + 8H+ (aq) → 5Fe3+(aq) + Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l) which species is reduced?

Answer Details

In the given chemical reaction, the oxidation state of Fe changes from +2 to +3, which means that Fe has lost an electron. Similarly, the oxidation state of Mn changes from +7 in MnO^-4 to +2 in Mn²⁺, which means that Mn has gained five electrons. Therefore, Fe is undergoing oxidation and MnO^-4 is undergoing reduction. Reduction is a process in which a species gains electrons, leading to a decrease in its oxidation state. In this case, MnO^-4 is gaining electrons, so it is being reduced. Thus, the answer is MnO^-4.