In the oxidation-reduction reaction between iron (Fe) and copper sulfate (CuSO4), the copper ions (Cu²⁺) accept electrons from iron, and iron loses electrons in the process. The relevant equation is:
\[ \text{Cu}^{2+} + \text{Fe} \rightarrow \text{Cu} + \text{Fe}^{2+} \]
In this case:
- Copper (Cu²⁺) is reduced because it gains electrons to become solid copper (Cu).
- Iron (Fe) is oxidized because it loses electrons to become iron ions (Fe²⁺).
From the equation, iron (Fe) gives up two electrons while copper (Cu²⁺) accepts two electrons.
Thus, the best description of what happens during this oxidation-reduction reaction is:
Copper gives up two electrons and iron accepts two electrons.