When lightning strikes,nitrogen molecules, $\mathrm { N } _ { 2 }$ ,and oxygen molecules, $\mathrm { O } _ { 2 }$ ,in the air react to form nitrates, $\mathrm { NO } _ { 3 }$ ?,which come down in the rain to help fertilize the soil.Is this this an example of oxidation or reduction?
A)The formation of nitrates is an example of oxidation.
B)The formation of nitrates is an example of reduction.
C)Both.The nitrogen is oxidized as it reacts with the oxygen while the oxygen is reduced.
D)Neither.Although the bonds of both the $\mathrm { N } _ { 2 }$ and $\mathrm { O } _ { 2 }$ molecules are broken to form the $\mathrm { NO } _ { 3 } ^ { - }$

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The formation of nitrates involves the oxidation of nitrogen (it gains oxygen) and the reduction of oxygen (it becomes part of a compound with a lower oxidation state than in O2).

When Lightning Strikes,nitrogen Molecules N2\mathrm { N } _ { 2 }N2​

When Lightning Strikes,nitrogen Molecules $\mathrm { N } _ { 2 }$