Question

CuSO4 + Zn ⎯→ Cu + ZnSO4 identify reducing and oxidising agent

Answer 1

cuso4 is the oxidizing agent and zn is the reducing agent

Answer 2

Answer : The reducing agent and oxidizing agent are, zinc and copper respectively.

Explanation :

• Oxidation-reduction reaction : It is a reaction in which oxidation and reduction reaction occur simultaneously.
• Oxidation reaction : It is the reaction in which a substance looses its electrons. In this oxidation state increases.
• Reduction reaction : It is the reaction in which a substance gains electrons. In this oxidation state decreases.

The balanced chemical reaction is,

$CuSO_4+Zn\rightarrow Cu+ZnSO_4$

Half reactions of oxidation and reduction are :

Reduction : $Cu^{2+}+2e^-\rightarrow Cu$

Oxidation : $Zn\rightarrow Zn^{2+}+2e^-$

From this reaction we conclude that the copper is reduced from (+2) to (0) oxidation state and zinc is oxidized from (0) to (+2) oxidation state. So, copper is an oxidizing agent and zinc is a reducing agent.

Hence, the reducing agent and oxidizing agent are, zinc and copper respectively.