As we all know the reduction of copper oxide will release oxygen, will the same happen to copper as it is a self-oxidizing agent? If so why? If not why? Any chemistry experts here?
I think copper is a self reducing agent not a self oxidising agent. In the presence of carbon/ carbon monoxide, (CuO) is unstable and the bond breaks releasing oxygen and copper metal. Copper being a cation is hence less electropositive hence can be reduced without the use of reducing agent.Copper cannot be self oxidised.There must be presence of oxygen or water for Cu to be oxidised.