Question

2Li(s) + 2H+(aq) + SO42–(aq) ---> 2Li+(aq) + SO42–(aq) + H2(g)
The reaction shown above between lithium and sulfuric acid is best described as
1 acid-base.
2 oxidation-reduction.
3 precipitation.

a. 1 only
b. 2 only
c. 3 only
d. 1 and 2 only
e. 1, 2, and 3

Answer 1

The reaction is 2 only.

It's not an acid-base reaction because no hydrogen atoms are being donated or switched.

It's an oxidation-reduction reaction because electrons are being transfered. The Li on the left has an oxidation number of 0, as it is alone, and then on the right it becomes a +1 ion. Vice versa for the H+ on the left as it becomes an H on the right.

It's not a precipitation reaction as there is no insoluble salt product that is being formed. There is a gas being formed, but that isn't a even a solid.

I had the same problem for a group discussion in my General Chem class. Hope this helps.