The reaction `Co(s) + Cu^(2+)(aq) rarr Co^(2+)(aq) + Cu(s)` is-

Options

A. oxidation
B. Reduction
C. Redox
D. Hydrolysis

Answer

To determine the nature of the reaction `Co(s) + Cu^(2+)(aq) → Co^(2+)(aq) + Cu(s)`, we will analyze the oxidation states of the elements involved and identify the processes of oxidation and reduction.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the oxidation states of the reactants and products:**
- In the reactants:
- Cobalt (Co) is in the solid state, which has an oxidation state of 0.
- Copper (Cu^(2+)) in aqueous form has an oxidation state of +2.
- In the products:
- Cobalt (Co^(2+)) in aqueous form has an oxidation state of +2.
- Copper (Cu) in solid form has an oxidation state of 0.

2. **Determine the changes in oxidation states:**
- Cobalt (Co) changes from 0 to +2. This indicates that cobalt is losing electrons.
- Copper (Cu^(2+)) changes from +2 to 0. This indicates that copper is gaining electrons.

3. **Identify oxidation and reduction:**
- The process where cobalt goes from 0 to +2 is called **oxidation** because it involves the loss of electrons.
- The process where copper goes from +2 to 0 is called **reduction** because it involves the gain of electrons.

4. **Classify the overall reaction:**
- Since both oxidation and reduction are occurring in this reaction, it is classified as a **redox reaction**.

### Final Conclusion:
The reaction `Co(s) + Cu^(2+)(aq) → Co^(2+)(aq) + Cu(s)` is a **redox reaction** where cobalt is oxidized and copper is reduced.