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Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) -> ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g) Which half reaction correctly describes the oxidation that is taking place?

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Zn (s) -> Zn+2 (aq) + 2e-

Zn (s) with a neutral charge is oxidized and looses two electrons in the process to form ZnCl2 (aq) where Zn has a charge of 2+.
User SheetJS
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Answer: The oxidation half reaction for the given reaction is
Zn(s)\rightarrow Zn^(2+)(aq.)+2e^-

Step-by-step explanation:

Oxidation reaction is defined as the reaction in which a substance looses its electron. The oxidation state of the substance gets increased.


X\rightarrow X^(n+)+ne^-

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


X^(n+)+ne^-\rightarrow X

For the given chemical equation:


Zn(s)+2HCl(aq.)\rightarrow ZnCl_2(aq.)+H_2(g)

Oxidation half reaction:
Zn(s)\rightarrow Zn^(2+)(aq.)+2e^-

Reduction half reaction:
2H^+(aq.)+2e^-\rightarrow H_2(g)

Zinc is getting oxidized and hydrogen is getting reduced.

Hence, the oxidation half reaction for the given reaction is
Zn(s)\rightarrow Zn^(2+)(aq.)+2e^-

User Carli Beeli
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