Question

Complete and balance the following reaction. Zinc loses two electrons to form an ion. What type of reaction does this equation represent? Explain your reasoning Zn + AgNO3 ________ + ________

Answer 1

Answer: Redox reaction/displacement reaction

Explanation:

Zn + 2AgNO3----------> Zn(NO3)2+ 2Ag

Let us consider the change in oxidation number from left to right

Oxidation number of zinc changed from 0 to +2

Oxidation number of silver changed from +1 to 0

Zinc was oxidized while silver was reduced. This shows a redox process

Also Zinc displaced silver because silver is below zinc in the a electrochemical series of metals. That is, the electrode potential of zinc is more negative than that of silver hence it can displace silver from its salt.

Answer 2

2AgNO3  +  Zn  -->  Zn(NO3)2  +  2Ag
Its a redox reaction, Zn is oxidised (0 --> 2+), Ag is reduced (1+ --> 0)