Question

Consider the following balanced equation:

Zn + 2H+ Zn2+ + H2

Which elements have oxidation numbers of zero?
A.
Zn only
B.
Zn, H+, and each hydrogen atom in H2
C.
H+ only
D.
Zn and each hydrogen atom in H2


i think between B or D not 100% sure

Answer 1

Zn⁰ + 2H⁺ ------> Zn²⁺ + H2⁰

H⁺ ion has oxidation number +1.
Zn²⁺ ion has oxidation number +2.
Atom of Zn has electric charge 0, and each hydrogen atom in the molecule H2 have oxidation number 0. So, Zn and each hydrogen atom in H2 have oxidation numbers equals "0".

Answer is
D. Zn and each hydrogen atom in H2