Question

Predict if a reaction will occur when Sn(s) and hydroiodic acid(aq) are combined. If a reaction occurs, write a balanced equation for the reaction.

Answer 1

Answer: The balanced chemical equation is written below.

Explanation:

Single displacement reaction is defined as the reaction in which more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its chemical reaction.

The reactivity of metal is determined by a series known as reactivity series. The metals lying above in the series are more reactive than the metals which lie below in the series.

$A+BC\rightarrow AC+B$

Metal A is more reactive than metal B.

Tin lies above in the series than hydrogen. So, it displaces hydrogen from its chemical reaction and releases hydrogen gas.

The chemical reaction of tin and hydroiodic acid follows the equation:

$Sn(s)+2HI(aq.)\rightarrow SnI_2(aq.)+H_2(g)$

Hence, the balanced chemical equation is written above.

Answer 2

Sn lies early in series (check picture) as compared with Hydrogen, hence it is possible to displace H₂ from acid so the reaction will occur.
The reaction is:
       Sn(s) + 2 HCl(aq) → SnCl₂(aq) + H₂(g)