Question

Consider the following unbalanced equation between copper (I) ions and iron to produce copper metal and iron (II) ions: Cu+ + Fe → Cu + Fe2. What is oxidized in this reaction?

1) Copper (I) ions
2) Iron
3) Copper metal
4) Iron (II) ions

Answer 1

The element that is oxidized in this reaction is Copper (I) ions.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given unbalanced equation:

Cu+ + Fe → Cu + Fe2+

The element that undergoes oxidation is the one that increases in oxidation number. In this case, the oxidation number of copper increases from +1 to 0, while the oxidation number of iron decreases from 0 to +2.

Therefore, the element that is oxidized in this reaction is Copper (I) ions (Option 1).