Question

In the chemical reaction, .
Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) ¨ ZnSO4(aq) + Cu(s),
(A) metallic zinc is the reducing agent.
(B) metallic zinc in reduced.
(C) copper ion is oxidized.
(D) sulfate ion is the oxidizing agent.

Answer 1

Remember the definitions.
Oxidation is the loss of electrons.
Reduction is the gain of electrons.
(The material oxidized is the reducing agent; therefore, the reducing agent loses electrons. The material reduced is the oxidizing agent; therefore, the oxidizing agent gains electrons).
Zn is zero on the left and +2 on the right.
Cu is +2 on the left and zero on the right.
S is +6 on both sides.
O is -2 on both sides.
From those definitions AND I have given you the oxidation states, you should be able to pick out the answer.

Answer 2

is the answer C

Answer 3

The answer is not C.
The reaction shows Cu going from Cu^+2 to Cu or from +2 to zero. That is the gain of electrons. Oxidation is the loss of electrons. It can't be C.

Answer 4

Then A because its going from 0 to +2

Answer 5

Right. Metallic Zn is the reducing agent (it is oxidized in the process).