What are the reduced components in this reaction? Zn + 2H(+) → Zn(2+) + H2
1 Answer
Jun 25, 2014
The reduced component is H₂.
We use oxidation numbers to identify oxidation and reduction products.
For this question, two rules are important:
- The oxidation number of an element is zero.
- The oxidation number of an ion is the same as its charge.
In the equation
Zn + 2H⁺ → Zn²⁺ + H₂
the oxidation numbers are
Zn = 0 (Rule 1)
H⁺ = +1 (Rule 2)
Zn²⁺ = +2 (Rule 2)
H₂ = 0 (Rule 1)
We see that the oxidation number of H has changed from +1 in H⁺ to 0 in H₂. This is a reduction of oxidation number.
Reduction is a decrease in oxidation number.
Thus, H⁺ has been reduced to H₂, and H₂ is the reduction product.
Hope this helps.
