Write the ionic equation for the reaction between zinc powder and silver trioxonitrate (V) solution. (b) Which substance in (a) above is (i) oxidized, (ii) reduced? (c) State two applications of oxidation numbers.

 

Write the ionic equation for the reaction between zinc powder and silver trioxonitrate (V) solution. 

(b) Which substance in (a) above is

(i) oxidized, (ii) reduced? 

(c) State two applications of oxidation numbers.

Solution: 

Zn(s) + 2Ag+(aq) --> Zn2+ + 2Ag(s)

(b)(i) Zinc is oxidized because it has lost two electrons and became cation.

(ii) Silver is reduced because it gains two electrons and became silver atom.

(c) Oxidation number is applied in the I.U.P.A.C. system of naming compounds. Oxidation number identifies which element in a compound is donating or accepting electrons as determined by the electrical charge it appears to possessed.

NOTE: oxidation involve lost of electrons while reduction involve gain of electrons.

QUESTION SOURCE: WAEC 1988 THEORY QUESTION 6(a)(b)(c)