Question

In a reaction between zinc and iodine, zinc iodide is formed. which is being oxidised ?

Answer 1

As oxidation means removal of electron so we can say,
Zinc is being oxidized to Zn2+

Answer 2

Answer: zinc is being oxidized.

Explanation:

Oxidation reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance looses its electrons. The oxidation state of the substance increases.

Reduction reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance gains electrons. The oxidation state of the substance gets reduced.

For the given reaction:

$Zn+I_2\rightarrow ZnI_2$

On reactant side:

Oxidation state of zinc= 0

Oxidation state of iodine = 0

On product side:

Oxidation state of zinc= +2

Oxidation state of iodine = -1

The oxidation state of iodine reduces from 0 to -1, it is getting reduced. Thus, it is getting reduced and it undergoes reduction reaction.

The oxidation state of zinc increases from 0 to +2. Thus, it is getting oxidized and it undergoes oxidation reaction.