Understanding Coupled Redox Reactions (10.8) from ACS Freeman Chemistry Book

[alexio]

I have studied chemistry thorugh ACS chemistry book published by Freeman.

Now I am studying chapter 10, Reduction-Oxidation and I have some problem with

Coupled Redox Reactions, 10.8.

I couldn`t understand the meaning of coupled reaction.

When I found the definition of it, it made me confused.

Plz tell me what the definition of it is and why it is important.

thanks

 

[Kushal]

if I'm not wrong, coupled redox reactions are when half cells are combined. it falls into electro chemistry and redox potentials.

eg, a hydrogen half cell is:

2H+(aq) + 2e- <-------> H2(g)

and a copper half cell is:

Cu2+(aq) + 2e- <-------> Cu(s)

when you combine both half cells,

H2(g) + Cu2+(aq) -------> 2H+(aq) + Cu(s)

this above reaction should be a coupled redox reaction.

 

[Blueshift5]

Coupled redox reactions, also known as coupled oxidation-reduction reactions, are a type of chemical reaction where the oxidation of one species is coupled with the reduction of another species. In simpler terms, this means that the transfer of electrons between two species is linked, and the reduction of one species cannot occur without the oxidation of the other species.

This concept is important because it allows for the efficient transfer of energy in biological and chemical systems. For example, in cellular respiration, the oxidation of glucose is coupled with the reduction of oxygen to produce energy in the form of ATP. This process would not be possible without the coupling of these two redox reactions.

Additionally, coupled redox reactions are crucial in many industrial processes, such as the production of metals and the synthesis of chemicals. Understanding the principles of coupled redox reactions allows scientists to design and optimize these processes for maximum efficiency.

Overall, the concept of coupled redox reactions is fundamental in our understanding of chemical reactions and their role in various systems. It is an important concept to grasp in order to fully understand the complexities of chemistry and its applications in our daily lives.