Question

So this isn't physics, but nobody is helping in the chemistry group/:

For the following reaction, identify the element that was oxidized, the element that was reduced, and the oxidizing agent. Give an explanation for each answer.

Zn + H2SO4 ZnSO4 + H2

Answer 1

It will help if you write the ionic equation as \[Zn + H_2^{2+} \rightarrow Zn^{2+} + H_2\]This can be broken up further into two half-reactions\[\begin{matrix}Zn \rightarrow Zn^{2+} + 2e^- \\ H_2^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow H_2\end{matrix}\]

The zinc looses two electrons, it has been oxidized. The hydrogen lost two electrons, it has been reduced.

The oxidizing agent causes the oxidation of another element. In this cause, it would be the hydrogen.

Answer 2

Thank you soo much(: