Core
Reactions: Redox
Slide 24 of 42
Redox reaction
Zn +
CuSO4 ®
ZnSO4 + Cu
Here, Zn goes from a oxidation state of
‘0’ to ‘2+’ and Cu from ‘2+’ to ‘0’
Zinc undergoes oxidation, it is thus oxidized (and so it is the reducing agent) because it loses electrons and in
the process its oxidation state increases.
Copper ions undergo reduction, they are reduced (and so CuSO4= oxidizing agent) because it gains electrons and its
oxidation state decreases.
Remember that reduction involves reduction
in oxidation state.