Question

Using the standard electrode potential, predict if the reaction between the following is feasible:

Ag⁺(aq) and Cu(s)

Answer 1

The possible reaction between `"Ag"_(("aq"))^+ + "Cu"_(("s"))` is given by,

\[\ce{2Ag+_{(aq)} + Cu_{(s)} -> 2Ag_{(s)} + Cu^{2+}_{(aq)}}\]

Oxidation half equation:	\[\ce{Cu_{(s)} -> Cu^{2+}_{ (aq)} + 2e-}\]; E° = - 0.34 V
Reduction half equation:	\[\ce{[Ag^+_{ (aq)} + e- -> Ag_{(s)}]× 2}\]; E° = + 0.80 V
	\[\ce{2Ag+_{(aq)} + Cu_{(s)} -> 2Ag_{(s)} + Cu^{2+}}\]; E° = + 0.46 V

E° positive for the overall reaction is positive. Hence, the reaction between `"Ag"_(("aq"))^+` and `"Cu"_(("s"))` is feasible.