Question

the activity series of metals which of the following is most likely to happen? choose 1 answer: a no chemical reaction will occur. b zinc is oxidized and copper is reduced. c zinc is reduced and copper is oxidized. d nitrogen is oxidized and oxygen is reduced.

Explanation:

To solve this, we use the activity series of metals. Zinc (Zn) is more reactive than copper (Cu). In a redox reaction, a more reactive metal will oxidize (lose electrons), and the less reactive metal ion will reduce (gain electrons). So Zn will be oxidized (loses electrons), and Cu (from its compound, though context implies a Cu - containing species) will be reduced (gains electrons). Option A is wrong as a reaction occurs. Option C swaps oxidation/reduction. Option D is irrelevant (involves N and O, not in the context of Zn - Cu reaction). So B is correct.

Answer:

B. Zinc is oxidized and copper is reduced.