In the reaction \(\mathrm{CuO + H_2 \rightarrow Cu + H_2O}\), which of the following statement is correct?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Copper(II) oxide is reduced and hydrogen is the reducing agent.
Copper has oxidation number \(+2\) in \(\mathrm{CuO}\) and \(0\) in \(\mathrm{Cu}\), so copper(II) oxide is reduced. Hydrogen changes from \(0\) in \(\mathrm{H_2}\) to \(+1\) in \(\mathrm{H_2O}\); therefore, hydrogen is oxidised and acts as the reducing agent. Thus, option B is correct, not option A, which reverses the roles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Copper(II) oxide is reduced and hydrogen is the reducing agent.
Why is this the correct answer?
Copper has oxidation number \(+2\) in \(\mathrm{CuO}\) and \(0\) in \(\mathrm{Cu}\), so copper(II) oxide is reduced. Hydrogen changes from \(0\) in \(\mathrm{H_2}\) to \(+1\) in \(\mathrm{H_2O}\); therefore, hydrogen is oxidised and acts as the reducing agent. Thus, option B is correct, not option A, which reverses the roles.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
