When zinc metal reacts with oxygen gas, 2Zn(s) + O2(g) → 2ZnO(g), large amounts of light and heat are released. A student states that this reaction is a combustion reaction but not a redox reaction. Do you agree? Defend your answer by explaining whether or not it meets the requirements of each type of reaction. (6 points)

A neutral element on its own in its standard state has an oxidation number of zero.

The sum of the oxidation numbers for a neutral molecule must be zero.

The sum of the oxidation numbers for an ion is equal to the net charge on the ion.

In a compound or simple ion: group 1 metals are always +1, group 2 metals are always +2.

In a compound: other metals (not group 1 or 2) prefer a positive oxidation state.

In a compound: hydrogen prefers +1, oxygen prefers -2, fluorine prefers -1.

In a compound with no oxygen present the other halogens will also prefer -1.

Explanation: