The reduction half equation of the following reaction is: \(Zn_{(s)} + CuSO_{4(aq)} → ZnSO_{4(aq)} +...

CHEMISTRY
WAEC 2023

The reduction half equation of the following reaction is:

\(Zn_{(s)} + CuSO_{4(aq)} → ZnSO_{4(aq)} + Cu_{(s)}\)

  • A. \(Zn_{(s)} → Zn^{2+}_{(aq)} + 2e^-\)
  • B. \(CuSO_{4(s)} + H_2O_{(l)}\) → \(Cu^{2+}_{(aq)}\) + \(SO_{4(aq)}^{2-}\)
  • C. \(Cu^{2+}_{(aq)} + 2e^- → Cu_{(s)}\)
  • D. \(Cu^{2+}_{(aq)} + e^- → Cu_{(s)}\)

Correct Answer: C. \(Cu^{2+}_{(aq)} + 2e^- → Cu_{(s)}\)

Explanation

The reduction half equation for the given reaction is:

\(Cu^{2+}_{(aq)} + 2e^- → Cu_{(s)}\)

In the overall reaction, copper(II) ions (\(Cu^{2+})\) gain two electrons (2e^-) and get reduced to form solid copper (Cu) metal. This is the reduction half-reaction in the redox reaction between zinc (Zn) and copper(II) sulfate (\(CuSO_4)\).



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