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Question
Class 12ChemistryElectrochemistry

Can you store copper sulphate solution in a zinc pot?

Verified Answer

Zinc is more reactive than copper. Hence, it displaces copper from copper sulphate solution as follows:

Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) → ZnSO4 (aq) + Cu(s)

Thus, zinc reacts with CuSO4 solution. Hence, we cannot store copper sulphate solution in a zinc pot.

Alternatively, 

To check whether zinc reacts with CuSO4 solution i.e., whether the following reaction takes place or not

Zn2+, Zn = – 0.76V, E° Cu2+, Cu = 0.34V

find the EMF of this cell reaction. The cell may be represented as : Zn | Zn2+ |  | Cu2+ | Cu

Eºcell = Eº Cu2+, Cu Zn2+,  Zn = 0.34 V – (–0.76 V) = 1.10 V

As Eºcell is positive, the reaction takes place and we cannot store, CuSO4 solution in zinc pot.

Can you store copper sulphate solution in a zinc pot? | Shiksha Nation