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

Question

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

chmvijay · Answer

zinc is oxidises as it has changed from atomic state to ionic state by losing 2 electrons . and protons of sulphuric acids are reduced to the hydrogen !!!
oxidising agent is substance which accepts the electron!!!here therefore sulfuric acid is oxidising agent!!!

preetha · Answer

You have to know how to calculate Oxidation states.  So Ox state of an element is 0.  And in an ionic state as in ZnSO4, it is +2.  Ox state has increased from 0 to +2 so Zn is oxidized.