Why does copper deposit when an iron nail is placed in copper sulphate solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Iron is more reactive than copper and displaces it
A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from its salt solution. Iron is more reactive than copper, so iron atoms lose electrons and enter solution as Fe²⁺, while Cu²⁺ ions gain electrons and become copper metal on the nail. The net reaction is Fe + CuSO₄ → FeSO₄ + Cu. Thus A is correct; copper does not displace iron, and water or sulphate gas is not responsible.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Iron is more reactive than copper and displaces it
Why is this the correct answer?
A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from its salt solution. Iron is more reactive than copper, so iron atoms lose electrons and enter solution as Fe²⁺, while Cu²⁺ ions gain electrons and become copper metal on the nail. The net reaction is Fe + CuSO₄ → FeSO₄ + Cu. Thus A is correct; copper does not displace iron, and water or sulphate gas is not responsible.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Metals and Non-metals. Topic: Reactivity series.
Student feedback
Was this question useful?
👍 0 Helpful 👎 0 Not helpful
Yes 0% No 0%
0 responsesStudent Reviews
No published reviews yet.
