Question

Which metal will react spontaneously with Cu2+ (aq) at 25°C?

Answer 1

Answer:

Mg  

Explanation:

The standard reduction potentials are

                                              E°/V

Au³⁺(aq ) + 3e⁻  ⟶  Au(s);     1.42

Hg²⁺(aq)  + 2e⁻  ⟶  Hg(l);     0.85

Ag⁺(aq)    +   e⁻  ⟶  Ag(s);    0.80

Cu²⁺(aq)   + 2e⁻ ⟶  Cu(s);   0.34

Mg2+(aq) + 2e- ⟶  Mg(s);   -2.38

The more negative the standard reduction potential, the stronger the metal is as a reducing agent.

Mg is the only metal with a standard reduction potential lower than that of Cu, so

Only Mg will react spontaneously with Cu²⁺.

 

Answer 2

Answer:

B. Mg

Explanation: