Chapter 19, Problem 57A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The given reaction is to be classified as oxidation or reduction reaction.

Concept introduction:

To classify a change as oxidation and reduction, we should know what is oxidation and reduction.

Oxidation involves:

• Loss of electrons.
• Addition of oxygen
• Removal of hydrogen
• Addition of electronegative element
• Removal of electropositive element
• Increase in oxidation number of the element

Reduction involves:

• Gain of electrons.
• Addition of hydrogen
• Removal of oxygen
• Addition of electropositive element
• Removal of electronegative element
• Decrease in oxidation number of the element

Answer to Problem 57A

The given change is oxidation.

Explanation of Solution

The given reaction is:

$Z{n}^{+2}+2e^{-}\to Zn$

The reaction involves gain of electron. So it is reduction.

Conclusion

Thus the reactions which involve loss of electrons are oxidation.