Question 1
Can silver displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution? Explain.
Need a hint for Question 1?
Compare the solid metal with the metal in the dissolved ions.
Check Question 1
No. Silver is less reactive than copper.
STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 3
Displacement and electron transfer
Use displacement evidence to compare metals and explain redox.
The essentials
- Place iron in copper(II) sulfate solution. Copper deposits on the iron and the blue colour fades.
- The solution can become pale green as iron(II) ions form. Copper makes a red-brown deposit.
- A more reactive metal can displace a less reactive metal from an aqueous solution of its ions.
Key vocabulary
| English | Chinese |
|---|---|
| displacement | 置换 |
| positive ion | 阳离子 |
| spectator ion | 旁观离子 |
Quick practice
Try each question before opening its hint or answer. Use paper for calculations and diagrams.
Question 2
Predict whether zinc reacts with iron(II) sulfate solution. Write the ionic equation if it does.
Need a hint for Question 2?
Locate zinc and iron in the reactivity series.
Check Question 2
Zinc displaces iron: Zn + Fe²⁺ → Zn²⁺ + Fe.
Question 3
For Fe + Cu²⁺ → Fe²⁺ + Cu, identify oxidation and reduction.
Need a hint for Question 3?
Compare oxidation numbers before and after the reaction.
Check Question 3
Iron is oxidised by losing electrons. Cu²⁺ ions are reduced by gaining electrons.
Use Lesson 3 in your worksheet for written practice. Your teacher will discuss those answers in class.