Consider the following representation of a voltaic cell. This voltaic cell is represented by the following reaction: Mg(s) + Cu²⁺(aq) → Cu(s) + Mg²⁺(aq)

Which of the following is true of the Mg(s) shown in the reaction representing the voltaic cell?

Question

Consider the following representation of a voltaic cell.

This voltaic cell is represented by the following reaction: Mg(s) + Cu²⁺(aq) → Cu(s) + Mg²⁺(aq)

Which of the following is true of the Mg(s) shown in the reaction representing the voltaic cell?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mg(s) is on the left side (reactants) of the reaction, which makes it the anode. At the anode, oxidation occurs, so Mg(s) functions as the reducing agent, not the oxidizing agent. Therefore, option B and C cannot be correct.

Consider the Following Representation of a Voltaic Cell