Question

For the following reaction identify which element is reduced and which is oxidized. Justify your answers

2Ag+ +Fe→Fe2+ +2Ag

Answer 1

In order to determine what is oxidized and what is reduced in a redox reaction, we must track the changes in oxidation numbers across the two sides of the equation. In the equation, iron began with zero and ended at 2+. Silver began at 1+ and ended at zero. Iron's oxidation number increased. Therefore, iron was oxidized. Silver's oxidation number decreased. Therefore, silver was reduced.

Oxidant is Ag. Reductant is Fe.