# Zinc reacts with silver nitrate solution. In this reaction, zinc atoms lose electrons and silver ions gain electrons. Explain why this reaction is described as a redox reaction, and identify which species is oxidised and which is reduced. Give a reason for each answer.

> AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.1.7 Oxidation, reduction and redox equations · Explain · 5 marks

> Zinc reacts with silver nitrate solution to form zinc nitrate solution and silver metal.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously (in the same reaction)
2. Zinc is oxidised
3. Because zinc loses electrons
4. Silver ions are reduced
5. Because silver ions gain electrons

## Key terms

- [redox reaction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/redox-reaction)
- [oxidised](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/oxidised)
- [reduced](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/reduced)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/zinc-reacts-with-silver-nitrate-solution-b5d75f08) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.