1(a). In these reactions, I2 (in the iodine solution) has what oxidation number?
1(b). The iodine starch reaction that turns purple depends on iodine being in the I- state. Was iodine then oxidized or reduced when it reacted in the testing solutions?
2. Orange juice contains vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid). Vitamin C can be oxidized by iodine. Does that make vitamin C an oxidizing agent or a reducing agent in this reaction? Did vitamin C give up or take electrons?
3. Why does the solution become purple only after several drops of iodine, while the water and cornstarch became purple almost immediately?
4. Claims about green tea often comment on its antioxidant content. What is an antioxidant? Is vitamin C an antioxidant?
5. Of the three solutions tested, which one contains the most antioxidizing ability?
6. In designing this experiment, 20 g of solid green pepper in 15 mL of water was used. Explain why this may or may not be a fair comparison to 15 mL of orange juice.
7. Using Internet resources (or other references), name one antioxidant that may be found in green tea. Also, do green peppers contain vitamin C?