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When the nail was copper-plated in Part III of the lab, what element do you think was reduced? Explain your answer in complete sentences.

User Sakib
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Reduction always results in a lowering of the oxidation number. The reaction of the system above is written as:

Cu2+(aq) + Fe(s) --> Cu(s) + Fe2+(aq)

From the reaction, we see that copper goes from the +2 to a neutral charge. Lowering of the oxidation number happens so this is the element that is being reduced.
User Manuel Ferreria
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