In the following reaction, is the nitrogen reduced or oxidized? 2Cu2O + 2NO 4CuO + N2

Nitrogen has reduced.

In the reaction, Cu₂O goes to CuO.

Oxidation state in

Cu₂O = + 1 CuO = + 2

2a + (-2) x 1 = 0 a + (-2) x 1 = 0

2a = + 2 a = + 2

a = 1

Hence, Cu has oxidized.

NO goes to N₂ by reducing its oxidation state from + 2 to 0.

Oxidation state in

NO = + 2

a + (-2) x 1 = 0

a = + 2

In the following reaction, the nitrogen is reduced.

2Cu2O + 2NO → 4CuO + N2