Which of the following species is the oxidising agent in the reaction: Fe(s) + $C u^{2 +}$ (aq) → $F e^{2 +}$ (aq) + Cu(s)?

easy MCQ 1 mark Class 11 · Chemistry · Redox Reactions

Answer

C u^{2 +}

(aq)

The correct answer is $C u^{2 +}$ (aq) — Hence, $C u^{2 +}$ (aq) is the oxidising agent.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the species undergoing oxidation and reduction.
Determine oxidation numbers: Fe → $F e^{2 +}$ (oxidised), $C u^{2 +}$ → Cu (reduced).
Since $C u^{2 +}$ gains electrons it is reduced.
The species that is reduced acts as the oxidising agent.
Hence, $C u^{2 +}$ (aq) is the oxidising agent.

Common mistake: Confusing oxidising agent with reducing agent

Concept tested: Identify oxidising/reducing agents