Question

In the reaction
Cu° + 2 H2SO4 → CuSO4 + 2 H2O + SO2,
copper is
A) reduced and is the oxidizing agent
B) reduced and is the reducing agent
C) oxidized and is the oxidizing agent
D) oxidized and is the reducing agent

Answer 1

Copper is D) oxidized and is the reducing agent

EXPLANATION: Copper goes from a charge of 0 in Cu to +2 in CuSO4 so it is oxidized. A reducing agent is the substance being oxidized.