Question

Identify oxidant and reductant, respectively, in the following reaction:
\(\text{Zn}(s)+\text{Cu}^{2+}(aq)\longrightarrow \text{Zn}^{2+}(aq)+\text{Cu}(s)\)

• A. \(\text{Zn}\), \(\text{Cu}^{2+}\)
• B. \(\text{Cu}\), \(\text{Zn}^{2+}\)
• C. \(\text{Cu}^{2+}\), \(\text{Zn}\)
• D. \(\text{Zn}^{2+}\), \(\text{Cu}^{2+}\)

Hint:

The species that gains electrons is the oxidant, and the one that loses electrons is the reductant.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
An oxidant (oxidising agent) gains electrons and is reduced. A reductant (reducing agent) loses electrons and is oxidised.

Step 2: Zinc
\(\text{Zn}\rightarrow \text{Zn}^{2+}+2e^{-}\). Zinc loses electrons, so it is the reductant.

Step 3: Copper ion
\(\text{Cu}^{2+}+2e^{-}\rightarrow \text{Cu}\). The copper ion gains electrons, so it is the oxidant.

Step 4: Compare the options
Oxidant and reductant respectively are \(\text{Cu}^{2+}\) and \(\text{Zn}\).

Final Answer:
The oxidant is Cu2+ and the reductant is Zn. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{Cu}^{2+},\ \text{Zn}} \]