9.1b Half equations

Full reaction: Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + Cu(s)

Note that (s) means solid, (aq) means aqueous.
Essentially, solid Zn piece is dissolving while Cu2+ ions from the solution is depositing onto the electrode.

 

Half equations show oxidation and reduction process separately

Machine generated alternative text:Here we can see that Zn is being oxidized and Cu2’ is being reduced.Reducing agent —* oxidation: Zn(s) —+ Zn»(aq) + 2e electrons are lostOxidizing agent —* reduction: Cu2(aq) + 2e — Cu(s) electrons are gainedNote there must be equal numbers of electrons in the two half-equations, so thatwhen they are added together the electrons cancel out.

 

 

Spectator ions are not shown because they don't participate in reaction

Machine generated alternative text:Zn atoms Cu ¿tornsj •__%, I’’jeIeeGeeeeØZn2+IOnSFigure 9.1 The reaction of zinc with œpper(II) sulfate solution.

Full equation

Machine generated alternative text:Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) — ZnSO4(aq) + Cu(s)

 

Net ionic equation

Machine generated alternative text:Zn(s) + Cu2(aq) — Zn2(aq) + Cu(s)

 

Spectator ions:  SO42-

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