Question

In the reaction, Zn (s) + Fe+2 (aq) arrow Zn+2 (aq) + Fe (s), the oxidizing agent is:

the Zn

the Fe

the Zn+2

the Fe+2

Answer 1

@campbell_st @CausticSyndicalist @Nnesha @DullJackel09 @perl @TheSmartOne

Answer 2

@phi

Answer 3

Look at the oxidation states of each compound to figure out this question.

Zn has an oxidation state of 0.
Fe(2+) has an oxidation state of +2.
Zn(2+) has an oxidation state of +2.
Fe has an oxidation state of 0.

Zn went from 0 to 2+. It became more positive, so it must have lost electrons. Zn was oxidized.

Fe went from +2 to 0. It became more negative, so it must have gained electrons. Fe was reduced.

The oxidizing agent is the reactant that causes the oxidation to occur by being reduced itself. What was reduced? The Fe(2+), so that is your oxidizing agent!

Similarly, the reducing agent is the reactant that causes the reduction to occur by being oxidized itself. What was oxidized? The Zn, so that is your reducing agent.