Question

Classify the reaction between zinc and acetic acid. Please answer fast, due tomorrow!

Answer 1

1) Zn(s) + 2 HO2CCH3(l) --> Zn(O2CCH3)2 + H2(g)

There are two half reactions:
Zn -->Zn (2+) + 2e-
2e- + 2 H+ --> H2

(the acetic acid ionized to form H+ and acetate- ions)


2) It's a red-ox (reduction-oxidation) reaction. The Zn gives up 2 electrons to the 2 hydrogen atoms. In general one element loses electrons and another gains electrons. The element gaining the electrons is the oxidizer and the element losing them is the reducing agent. The oxidizer becomes reduced and the reducing agent becomes oxidized.

3) Hydrocarbons and oxygen.

Answer 2

Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2 This reaction is rapid, because HCl is a strong acid and provides more reactive H+ ions. The products are zinc chloride and hydrogen gas. Zn + 2CH3COOH → Zn(CH3COO)2 + H2 This reaction is slower, because acetic acid is a weak acid. The products are zinc acetate and hydrogen gas.

So I would classify it as expeditious
Hope it helps!