Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 4: Chemical Reactions/Question

AP Chemistryeasymcq1 pt

A strip of copper metal is lowered into aqueous Zn(NO₃)₂. What occurs?

A.No reaction, because copper is less active than zinc

B.Copper dissolves while zinc metal plates out

C.Zinc deposits spontaneously onto the copper strip

D.The solution turns blue as Cu²⁺ accumulates

Explanation

Core Concept

Displacement requires the free metal to sit above the dissolved metal in the activity series. Copper ranks below zinc, so copper atoms cannot donate electrons to Zn²⁺ ions and the strip remains unchanged. Running the reverse experiment, dipping zinc into copper(II) nitrate, would react readily, which highlights how the ordering controls everything.

Correct Answer

ANo reaction, because copper is less active than zinc

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