The given question is incomplete, the complete question is:
Given the balanced equation representing a redox reaction:
2Al + 3Cu2+ --> 2Al3+ + 3Cu
Which statement is true about this reaction?
(1) Each Al loses 2e- and each Cu2+ gains 3e-
(2) Each Al loses 3e- and each Cu2+ gains 2e-
(3) Each Al3+ gains 2e- and each Cu loses 3e-
(4) Each Al3+ gains 3e- and each Cu loses 2e-
Answer:
The correct answer is option 2, that is, in the given reaction each of Al loses three electrons and each of the Cu^2+ ion acquires two electrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand the concept, let us suppose that when an atom A loses an electron, it turns into an atom A^1+, and becomes A^2+ when it loses two electrons. On the other hand, when an atom A gains an electron, it turns into A^1- and becomes A^2- when it acquires two electrons.
Therefore, in the given case, 2Al + 3Cu^2+ --> 2Al^3+ + 3Cu, each of the Al atom turns into Al^3+ when it loses three electrons, and when each of the Cu^2+ ions acquires two electrons, it turns into Cu (Cu^2+ ^2- = Cu).