What kind of reaction is #2Al (s)+3Cl_2 (g) -> 2AlCl_3(s)#?

1 Answer
Feb 29, 2016

This is formally a redox reaction, though other designations may be possible (but I have not thought of them yet!).

Explanation:

Zerovalent aluminum is OXIDIZED to #Al(III)#; it has formally lost 3 electrons. Zerovalent chlorine gas is REDUCED to #Cl^-#. Diatomic chlorine gas accepted 2 electrons to form 2 equiv of chloride ion, #Cl^-#.