Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 4: Chemical Reactions/Question

AP Chemistrymediummcq1 pt

Chlorine gas is bubbled into aqueous NaBr. Which statement describes what happens?

A.Br⁻ is oxidized to Br₂ while Cl₂ is reduced to Cl⁻

B.Nothing happens because halogens cannot displace one another

C.Cl₂ is oxidized to Cl⁻ while Br⁻ is reduced to Br₂

D.NaBr converts into NaCl₂, a new sodium salt

Explanation

Core Concept

Halogen activity decreases going down the group, and chlorine sits above bromine, so Cl₂ seizes electrons from Br⁻ ions. Bromide loses electrons and becomes elemental bromine, visible as an orange-brown tint, while chlorine descends to chloride. This is single-replacement redox operating among nonmetals, governed by group position exactly as the metal activity series governs metals.

Correct Answer

ABr⁻ is oxidized to Br₂ while Cl₂ is reduced to Cl⁻

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