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Oxidation Number
Chapter Name : Redox Reactions
Sub Topic Code : 102_11_08_03_05
Topic Name : Oxidation Number
Sub Topic Name : Disproportionation Reactions
Introduction

A redox reaction in which a same element present in a particular compound in a definite oxidation state is oxidized as well as reduced simultaneously.

Pre-Requisites:

 Decomposition Reaction,exothermic reaction

Activity:

The UV photolysis of mercury(I) chloride (Hg2Cl2 ? Hg + HgCl2) is a disproportionation.

Real Life Question:

Is respiration a disproportionation reaction or not?

Key Words / FlashCards
Key Words Definitions (pref. in our own words)
Disproportionation Reaction It is a specific type of redox reaction in which a species is simultaneously reduced and oxidized to form two different products.
Exothermic reaction An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of light or heat. It is the opposite of an endothermic reaction.
Learning aids / Gadgets
Gadgets How it can be used
White phosphorus White phosphorus undergoes disproportionation when it reacts with water and sodium hydroxide.
Real life uses :

The Boudouard reaction is for example used in the HiPco method for producing carbon nanotubes, high pressure carbon monoxide disproportionates when catalysed on the surface of an iron particle.

Places to visit :

Chemistry lab

Practical examples around us
Examples Explainations
Fermentation In fermentation, part of the substrate molecule itself accepts the electrons. Fermentation is therefore a type of disproportionation, and does not involve an overall change in oxidation state of the substrate.
What you learn in Theory:

Disproportionation, is a specific type of redox reaction in which a species is simultaneously reduced and oxidized to form two different products.

What you learn in Practice:

The element in the form of reacting substance is in the intermediate oxidation state; and both higher and lower oxidation states of that element are formed in the reaction. 

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