Question

select the correct answer.
iron (fe) reacts with copper sulfate (cuso₄) to form iron (ii) sulfate. in this reaction, cu²⁺ gains electrons to form cu. what happens to cu in this reaction?
fe(s) + cuso₄(aq) = feso₄(aq) + cu(s)
a. cu undergoes decomposition
b. cu undergoes oxidation
c. cu undergoes reduction
d. cu undergoes combustion

Explanation:

• Decomposition: A single compound breaks into simpler substances. Here, \(Cu\) is not a reactant that decomposes.
• Oxidation: Loss of electrons. \(Cu^{2 + }\) gains electrons (as stated in the problem), so it is not oxidation.
• Reduction: Gain of electrons. Since \(Cu^{2+}\) gains electrons (from \(Fe\) which acts as a reducing agent), \(Cu\) undergoes reduction.
• Combustion: Reaction with \(O_2\) to produce heat. No \(O_2\) involved in this reaction.

Answer:

C. Cu undergoes reduction