Which statement is correct about the reaction CuO + H₂ → Cu + H₂O between copper(II) oxide and hydrogen?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Copper(II) oxide is reduced and hydrogen is oxidised.
Use the oxygen-transfer rule for redox reactions. CuO loses oxygen and becomes Cu, so copper(II) oxide is reduced. H₂ gains that oxygen and becomes H₂O, so hydrogen is oxidised. Because reduction and oxidation occur simultaneously, the reaction is a redox reaction. Therefore option B is correct; option A reverses both changes, while C and D incorrectly assign the same process to both reactants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Copper(II) oxide is reduced and hydrogen is oxidised.
Why is this the correct answer?
Use the oxygen-transfer rule for redox reactions. CuO loses oxygen and becomes Cu, so copper(II) oxide is reduced. H₂ gains that oxygen and becomes H₂O, so hydrogen is oxidised. Because reduction and oxidation occur simultaneously, the reaction is a redox reaction. Therefore option B is correct; option A reverses both changes, while C and D incorrectly assign the same process to both reactants.
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.
