Which element is undergoing reduction in the following reaction: Zn(s) + 2 AgNO3(aq) → Zn(NO3)2(aq) + 2 Ag(s)?

1 Answer
anor277
Nov 29, 2015

The silver ion, #Ag^+#, is reduced to silver metal, #Ag^0(s)#.

Explanation:

The silver species formally undergoes a decrease in oxidation state from #+I# to #0#. For every reduction, there is a corresponding oxidation, and zinc metal is oxidized to #Zn^(2+)#.

#Zn(s)uarr + 2AgNO_3(aq) rarr Zn(NO_3)_2(aq) + 2Ag(s)darr#

In other words, reduction is gain of electrons, whereas oxidation is loss of electrons.....(LEO says GER, loss of electrons = oxidation;
gain in electrons = reduction). You will have to remember this.

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