Identify the following as either reduction or oxidation:

a. 2I^- -> I2 + 2e- (my answer oxidized)
b. Zn2+ + 2e^- -> Zn (reduced)

could someone check my answers? I remember OIL RIG (oxidation is loss, reduction is gain.) but I'm still uncertain of what I answered.

anyone?

That's the same thing i chose but I'm confused.

Your answers are correct!

a. The reaction 2I^- -> I2 + 2e^- involves the loss of electrons by iodide ions, so it is an oxidation reaction.

b. The reaction Zn2+ + 2e^- -> Zn involves the gain of electrons by zinc ions, so it is a reduction reaction.

To determine whether a reaction is a reduction or an oxidation, you can apply the OIL RIG principle. Remember, oxidation involves the loss of electrons (increase in oxidation state), while reduction involves the gain of electrons (decrease in oxidation state).

a. 2I^- -> I2 + 2e-
In this reaction, the I^- ion is converted into I2, indicating a loss of two electrons. According to the OIL RIG principle, the species that loses electrons undergoes oxidation. Therefore, your answer that this reaction is oxidized is correct.

b. Zn2+ + 2e^- -> Zn
In this reaction, Zn2+ gains two electrons to become Zn. The species that gains electrons is undergoing reduction, as per the OIL RIG principle. Hence, your answer that this reaction is reduced is correct as well.

So, to summarize:
a. Reaction a is oxidation
b. Reaction b is reduction

Your answers are correct!