Question

$\mathrm{Cu}\to {\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}$

At which electrode (anode or cathode) would such a reaction take place? Is this an example of oxidation or reduction?

Answer 1

By the given reaction:

$\mathrm{Cu}\to {\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}$

The copper (Cu) metal loses the electrons to form copper ions $\left({\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}\right)$ and becomes positively charged specie (cation).

Oxidation is a process of loses of electrons at anode.

So, the reaction takes place at anode. Yes, this reaction is an example of oxidation.