Why does a reddish-brown layer form on an iron nail placed in copper sulphate solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Copper is deposited on the nail
Iron is more reactive than copper, so it displaces copper from copper sulphate solution: \(\mathrm{Fe + CuSO_4 \rightarrow FeSO_4 + Cu}\). The released copper deposits on the iron nail as a reddish-brown layer. Iron does not deposit; instead, it reacts and forms iron sulphate in the solution.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Copper is deposited on the nail
Why is this the correct answer?
Iron is more reactive than copper, so it displaces copper from copper sulphate solution: \(\mathrm{Fe + CuSO_4 \rightarrow FeSO_4 + Cu}\). The released copper deposits on the iron nail as a reddish-brown layer. Iron does not deposit; instead, it reacts and forms iron sulphate in the solution.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
