Question

Which of the following substance is being reduced in the following reaction.? Cu (s) + 2AgNO3 (aq) + 2Ag (s) + Cu(NO3)2 (aq) A) AgNO3 B) Cu C) Ag D) Cu(NO3)2

Answer 1

Answer: The correct answer is Option A.

Explanation:

Oxidation reaction is defined as the reaction in which an atom looses its electrons. Here, oxidation state of the atom increases.

$X\rightarrow X^{n+}+ne^-$

Reduction reaction is defined as the reaction in which an atom gains electrons. Here, the oxidation state of the atom decreases.

$X^{n+}+ne^-\rightarrow X$

For the given chemical reaction:

$Cu(s)+2AgNO_3(aq.)\rightarrow 2Ag(s)+Cu(NO_3)_2(aq.)$

The half reactions for the above reaction are:

Oxidation half reaction: $Cu(s)\rightarrow Cu^{2+}(aq.)+2e^-$

Reduction half reaction:  $2Ag^+(aq.)+2e^-\rightarrow 2Ag(s)$

From the above reactions, copper is loosing its electrons. Thus, it is getting oxidized.

Silver ion is gaining electrons and thus is getting reduced.

Hence, the correct answer is Option A.