Question

Can copper sulphate solution be stored in a zinc pot? Give a reason for your answer by referring to the values given below.

`E_(Zn^(2+)//Zn)^0 = -0.76  V E_(Cu^(2+)//Cu)^0 = + 0.34  V`

Answer 1

No copper sulphate solution cannot be stored in a zinc pot. Zinc is more reactive than copper because it has a lower reduction potential `E_(Zn^(2+)//Zn)^0 = -0.76  V` compared to copper `E_(Cu^(2+)//Cu)^0 = + 0.34  V`. This means zinc acts as a stronger reducing agent and will undergo oxidation.

If stored in a zinc pot, a spontaneous redox reaction occurs where zinc displaces copper from the solution:

\[\ce{Zn_{(s)} + CuSO4_{(aq)} -> ZnSO4_{(aq)} + Cu_{(s)}}\]

As a result, the zinc pot will gradually dissolve (corrode) and develop holes, making it unfit for storage.