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

Answer 1

The balanced chemical reaction is:

Zn + H2SO4 = ZnSO4 + H2

For this reaction the one being oxidized is zinc since the charge change from neutral to +2. This is also the reducing agent. On the other hand, the one being reduced is hydrogen since the charge change from +1 to neutral. This is the oxidizing agent.