How many electrons are transferred in the given redox reaction?

Zn+2AgNO3⟶2Ag+Zn(NO3)2

2 electrons are transfered in this reaction.

Explanation:

Oxidation is a reaction where an atom, ion, or molecule loses electrons, while reduction corresponds to the electron gain of an atom, ion, or molecule.

In an oxidation-reduction reaction two simultaneous processes take place, oxidation and reduction.

So, oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions involve the transfer of electrons between chemical species. They are also called electron transfer reactions since the particle that is exchanged is the electron.

In this case:

Zn(s) ⇒ Zn²⁺(aq) + 2 e⁻

2 Ag⁺  (aq) + 2 e⁻ ⇒ 2 Ag(s)

So, zinc metal loses two electrons to form the zinc(II) ions, while the two silver ions each gain one  electron to form two silver metal atoms.

Then, Zn is a reducing agent (The reducing agent is the one that provides the electrons, oxidizing itself), AgNO3 is an oxidizing agent (The oxidizing agent is the one that traps the electrons, reducing itself).

Finally, you can see that 2 electrons are transfered in this reaction.