Question

Which statements are true? The oxidation number for Cu(s) is +2. An oxidizing agent gains electrons. Na+ is formed from the reduction of Na(s) . The oxidation number for Hg(????) is 0. A reducing agent gains electrons. Zn2+ is formed from the oxidation of Zn(s) .

Answer 1

The oxidation number for Cu(s) is 0. An oxidizing agent gains electrons. Na+ is formed from the reduction of Na(s). The oxidation number for Hg(????) is usually +2. A reducing agent gains electrons. Zn2+ is formed from the oxidation of Zn(s).

Step-by-step explanation:

In this question, we are given several statements about oxidation numbers and oxidizing/reducing agents. Let's go through each statement one by one:

1. The oxidation number for Cu(s) is +2. This statement is incorrect. The oxidation number for Cu(s) is 0 because it is in its elemental form.
2. An oxidizing agent gains electrons. This statement is correct. An oxidizing agent is a substance that causes another substance to lose electrons.
3. Na+ is formed from the reduction of Na(s). This statement is correct. Na+ is formed when sodium loses one electron and gets oxidized to Na+.
4. The oxidation number for Hg(????) is 0. This statement is incorrect. The oxidation number for Hg is usually +2, but it can also be +1 in some cases.
5. A reducing agent gains electrons. This statement is correct. A reducing agent is a substance that causes another substance to gain electrons.
6. Zn2+ is formed from the oxidation of Zn(s). This statement is correct. Zn2+ is formed when zinc loses two electrons and gets oxidized to Zn2+.