Question

Dihydrogen reacts with CuO to give

• A. CuH₂
• B. Cu
• C. Cu₂O
• D. Cu(OH)₂

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The given question asks about the reaction between dihydrogen (H₂) and copper(II) oxide (CuO).

The reaction involved is a reduction-oxidation (redox) reaction where hydrogen acts as a reducing agent. In this reaction, dihydrogen reduces copper(II) oxide to copper (Cu) while itself being oxidized to water (H₂O). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

\text{CuO} + \text{H}_2 \rightarrow \text{Cu} + \text{H}_2\text{O}

Let's analyze the reaction:

• Copper(II) oxide (CuO) is reduced to copper (Cu). This is because the O from CuO combines with H₂ to form water.
• Dihydrogen (H₂) is oxidized to form water (H₂O).

Let's evaluate the given options:

• CuH₂: This compound does not form in this reaction. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
• Cu: This is the correct product formed when copper(II) oxide is reduced by dihydrogen. Hence, this option is correct.
• Cu₂O: This is not formed in this reaction. Cu₂O would require a different reaction mechanism. This option is incorrect.
• Cu(OH)₂: This compound is not formed here. It generally forms in reactions involving hydroxides, not direct reduction of CuO. This option is incorrect.

Conclusion: The correct answer is "Cu" because in the reaction of dihydrogen with CuO, copper(II) oxide is reduced to metallic copper.