Question

What is the oxidation half-reaction for Mg(s) + ZnCl2(aq) MgCl2(aq) + Zn(s)?

A. Zn(s) Zn2+ + 2e-
B. Zn2+ + 2e- Zn(s)
C. Mg(s) Mg2+ + 2e-
D. Mg2+ + 2e- Mg(s)

Answer 1

The half cells are
Mg ==> Mg^2+ + 2e
Zn^2+ + 2e ==> Zn

Oxidation is the loss of electrons.