When Lightning Strikes, Nitrogen Molecules, N2, and Oxygen Molecules, O₂

question 98

Multiple Choice

When lightning strikes, nitrogen molecules, N2, and oxygen molecules, O₂, in the air react to form nitrates, NO₃-, 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 N2 and O₂ molecules are broken to form the NO₃-, neither oxidation nor reduction occurs.

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