Question

The reactant atoms are copper, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. Which reactant atom was oxidized in the reaction?

Answer 1

C. copper.

Step-by-step explanation:

• The atom which loses electrons (its oxidation sate be more positive) is the atom that is oxidized.

• While, the atom which gains electrons (its oxidation sate be more negative) is the atom that is reduced.

• Nitrogen:

It is oxidation sate is changed from (+5) in the reactants (NO₃⁻) to (+4) in the products (NO₂). N gains 1 electron

So, it is reduced.

• Oxygen:

It is oxidation sate is the same (-2) in the reactants (NO₃⁻) and (-2) in the products (NO₂).

So, it is neither be oxidized nor reduced.

• Copper:

It is oxidation sate is changed (0) in the reactants (Cu) to (+2) in the products (Cu²⁺). Cu loses 2 electrons.

So, it is oxidized.

• Hydrogen:

It is oxidation sate is the same (+1) in the reactants (H⁺) and (+1) in the products (H₂O).

So, it is neither be oxidized nor reduced.