Question

The positive value of the standard electrode potential of Cu²⁺/Cu indicates that:

(i) this redox couple is a stronger reducing agent than the H⁺/H₂ couple.

(ii) this redox couple is a stronger oxidising agent than H⁺/H₂ .

(iii) Cu can displace H₂ from acid.

(iv) Cu cannot displace H₂ from acid.

Answer 1

(ii) this redox couple is a stronger oxidising agent than H⁺/H₂ .

(iv) Cu cannot displace H₂ from acid.

Explanation:

The lesser the E⁰ value of the redox couple higher is the reducing power.

For \[\ce{Cu^{2+} + 2e^{-} -> Cu ; E^0 = 0.34 V}\]

For \[\ce{2H^{+} + 2e^{-} -> H ; E^0 = 0.00 V}\]

Since the second redox couple has less standard reduction potential than the first so it can be concluded that the redox couple is a stronger oxidizing agent than H⁺/H₂ and copper cannot H₂ from acid.