Question

Which of the following conversions requires an oxidizing agent?

O2 yields 2O2-
SO3 yields SO42-
MnO2 yields Mn2+
Zn yields Zn2+

Answer 1

The answer is d)

Zn has oxidation number 0; Zn(2+) has oxidation number +2. Here 2 electrons were taken away, so the Zn was oxidized. So, the transformation requires an oxidizing agent.

Answer 2

Zn + H₂SO₄ = ZnSO₄ + H₂

Zn⁰ - 2e⁻ = Zn²⁺ zinc is the reducing agent
2H⁺ + 2e⁻ = H₂ hydrogen ions is oxidizer