Displacement Reactions

Question 1

What would the ionic equation be for Zinc + Copper Sulfate → Zinc Sulfate + Copper?

Answer 1

Zn + Cu²⁺ → Zn ²⁺ + Cu

Question 2

What happens in a displacement reaction? Give an example.

Answer 2

A more reactive metal will displace a less reactive compound. Eg; copper will displace the silver nitrate to form copper nitrate because its more reactive.

Question 3

Write a balanced symbol equation with state symbols for this displacement reaction: Copper (II) + Silver Nitrate → Copper Nitrate + Silver (I) . Explain.

Answer 3

Cu (s) + 2AgNO₃ (aq) → Cu(NO₃)₂ (aq) + 2Ag (s)
This is because Copper is 2+ charge, but Nitrate is 1- charge. So you need two Nitrates.

Question 4

What would the half equations be for Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu? Which ones are oxidation and which ones are reduction and why?

Answer 4

Zn - 2e⁻ → Zn²⁺ (Oxidation because it’s losing electrons)
Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu (Reduction because it’s gaining electrons)