Is it safe to stir 1M AgNO3 solution with a copper spoon?
Given:
E°(Ag+,Ag) = 0.80 V
E°(Cu,Cu2+) = −0.34 V
Since E°(Ag+, Ag) = +0.80 V is higher than E°(Cu2+, Cu) = −E°(Cu, Cu2+) = −(−0.34) = +0.34 V, therefore Ag+ ions can easily accept electrons from Cu.
In other words, the following reaction will occur:
Cu + 2Ag+ ⟶ Cu2+ + 2Ag
Hence, 1 M AgNO3 solution cannot be stirred with a copper spoon.