Question

Select all the reactions that represent an oxidation (there may be more than one correct answer, select all that apply).

a. CH₃CH₂CH₂CHOH→CH₃CH₂CH₂CHO
b. NADP⁺→NADPH
c. Zn₂⁺→Zn⁺
d. Cu⁺→Cu₂⁺
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Answer 1

The oxidation reactions among the given options are a) alcohol being oxidized to an aldehyde and d) Cu+ to Cu2+. These involve the loss of hydrogen and the loss of electrons, respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine which of the reactions represent an oxidation process, we will look for the increase in oxidation number or the loss of electrons based on the 'oil rig' mnemonic, which stands for 'oxidation is loss, reduction is gain.'

• a. CH₃CH₂CH₂CHOH→CH₃CH₂CH₂CHO: The alcohol (CHOH) is being oxidized to an aldehyde (CHO). The conversion involves the loss of hydrogen atoms from the alcohol, which is an oxidation.
• b. NADP⁺→NADPH: This is a reduction reaction, as electrons are being gained by NADP+ to form NADPH.
• c. Zn²⁺→Zn⁺: Since the charge of zinc is becoming less positive, this is a reduction, not an oxidation.
• d. Cu⁺→Cu²⁺: The oxidation state of copper is increasing from +1 to +2, meaning it is losing electrons. This is an oxidation reaction.

Thus, the reactions representing oxidation are a) (alcohol to aldehyde conversion) and d) (Cu+ to Cu2+).