Iron (Fe) reacts with copper sulfate (CuSO4) to form iron (II) sulfate. In this reaction, Cu2+ gains electrons to form Cu. Which statement is true about 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.

Verified Answer :

C.  Cu undergoes reduction.

Answer: C.) Cu undergoes reduction.

Explanation:

\(Fe(s)+CuSO_4(aq)\rightarrow FeSO_4(aq)+Cu(s)\)

I)  Oxidation reaction : involves loss of electrons and there is an increase in oxidation state number.

\(Fe\rightarrow Fe^{2+}+2e^-\)

Fe metal has undergone oxidation, as its oxidation state is changing from 0 to +2 in \(FeSO_4\).

ii) Reduction reaction : involves gain of electrons and there is a decrease in oxidation state number.

\(Cu^{2+}+2e^-\rightarrow Cu\)

Copper(II) ion has undergone reduction, as its oxidation state is changing from 2+ to 0. Copper ions are getting converted into copper metal.