Question

Identify the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent for the following reaction: Zn(s)+Cu2+(aq)→Zn2+(aq)+Cu(s) Express your answers as chemical formulas separated by a comma.

Answer 1

Answer: oxidizing agent: $Cu^{2+}$, reducing agent :$Zn$

Explanation: Oxidation-reduction reaction or redox reaction is defined as the reaction in which oxidation and reduction reactions occur simultaneously.

Oxidation reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance looses its electrons. The oxidation state of the substance increases.

Reduction reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance gains electrons. The oxidation state of the substance gets reduced.

For the given reaction:

$Zn(s)+Cu^{2+}(aq)\rightarrow Zn^{2+}(aq)+Cu(s)$

On reactant side:

Oxidation state of zinc = 0

Oxidation state of copper = +2

On product side:

Oxidation state of zinc = +2

Oxidation state of copper = 0

The oxidation state of copper reduces from +2 to 0, it is getting reduced. The substance which itself gets reduced, oxidizes other and is called as oxidizing agent.Thus $Cu^{2+}$ acts as oxidizing agent.

The oxidation state of zinc increases from 0 to +2. Thus, it is getting oxidized and it undergoes oxidation reaction. The substance which itself gets oxidized, reduces other and is called as reducing agent.Thus $Zn$ acts as reducing agent.