If chromium has a reduction potential of -0.74 V, and copper has a reduction potential of 0.52 V and they are placed in contact in a solution of saltwater, then which of these (it's probably more than one) will happen?
1) Copper will be oxidized.
2) Chromium will act as an oxidizing agent.
3) Chromium will be oxidized.
4) Copper will act as a reducing agent.
5) Copper will act as an oxidizing agent.
2007-05-18 07:56:08 · 3 answers · asked by Random G 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
The element with the highest positive value for reduction potential will be reduced, oxidizing the other element. In this case, copper is reduced, so it acts as an oxidizing agent.
2007-05-18 08:04:16 · answer #1 · answered by chemmie 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Cr3+ + 3e- >>Cr E = -0.74
Cu 2++ 2e- >> Cu E = 0.52
Cr >> Cr3+ + 3e- E = + 0.74
the equation is
3 Cu 2+ + 3Cr >> 3 Cu + 2Cr3+
Cr will be oxidized
2007-05-18 15:04:20 · answer #2 · answered by Non più attiva su answers 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
3 is true.
5 is true is you accept that copper ions act as an oxidising agent.
2007-05-18 15:04:16 · answer #3 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋