(a) Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.
(b) Consider the following: Cu(_{(s)}) + 2Ag(^{+}_{(Ag)}) (to) Cu(^{2+}_{(aq)}) + 2Ag(_{(s)})
(i) State the species that is reduced
(ii) Write half-cell equation for each of the species.
Explanation
(a) Oxidation is defined as the loss or removal of electron.
(b)(i) The species that is reduced is Ag(^+)
(ii) Cu (rightleftharpoons) Cu(^{2+}) + 2e(^-)
2Ag(^+) + 2e(^-) (rightleftharpoons) 2Ag