Question detail
In the reaction between iron(III) ions and zinc, which species is the reducing agent?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Oxidation, reduction and redox equations
Question
- A. Fe^3+
- B. Zn
- C. Zn^2+
- D. Fe^2+
Answer
Zn
Explanation
Zinc is the reducing agent because it donates electrons to iron(III) ions, reducing them to iron(II) ions while itself being oxidized to Zn^2+.
Common mistake
Combining Half Equations
Students often forget to balance the charges when combining half equations, leading to incorrect overall redox equations.
To fix this, ensure that both the number of atoms and the charges are balanced. For example, when combining the half equations for oxidation and reduction, adjust the coefficients as necessary to achieve balance. This can be done by adding electrons to the side with the higher positive charge until both sides are equal. After balancing, write the overall redox equation. Always check that both mass and charge are conserved.
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