When silver tarnishes,
A)Ag atoms are oxidized to form Ag⁺ ions.
B)Ag atoms are reduced to form Ag⁺ ions.
C)Ag⁺ ions are oxidized to form Ag atoms.
D)Ag⁺ ions are reduced to form Ag atoms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tarnishing of silver occurs due to the reaction of silver with sulfur-containing compounds in the air. This forms a layer of silver sulfide (Ag2S) on the surface of silver. In this reaction, silver atoms lose electrons and are oxidized to form Ag+ ions, which combine with sulfur ions to form Ag2S.

When Silver Tarnishes