Identify the substance that is oxidised and the substance that is reduced in the following reaction:
CuO(s) + H2(g) → Cu(s) + H2O(l)
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → CuO is reduced and H2 is oxidised
A substance that gains oxygen is oxidised, and one that loses oxygen is reduced.
Copper(II) oxide loses its oxygen and becomes copper, so CuO is reduced.
Hydrogen gains that oxygen and becomes water, so H2 is oxidised.