Word Equation: Copper (II) Sulfate + Zinc -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper (II)

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In summary, when Copper (II) sulfate is added to Zinc, it becomes Zinc Sulfate and Copper, but the copper can exist as either an ion (copper(II)) or as elemental copper, depending on the conditions of the reaction. The correct balanced equation for the reaction is Zinc+Copper (II) sulfate -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper.
  • #1
UrbanXrisis
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When Copper (II) sulfate is added to Zinc, it becomes Zinc Sulfate and Copper, but is the copper an ion [copper(II)]? or is it just copper?

Zinc+Copper (II) sulfate -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper
or
Zinc+Copper (II) sulfate -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper (II)
 
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  • #2
Depends on the medium of reaction... :wink: For example if Cu(II)SO_{4} is solid (anhidrous) crystal and u add a piece of solid zinc,there would be no chemical reaction... :-p

Basically the reaction,under certain conditions (pressure,temperature,aqueous solution) should go
[tex] Zn+CuSO_{4}\rightarrow Cu\downarrow +ZnSO_{4} [/tex]

If you want to write the ionic reaction,be my guest.

Daniel.
 
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  • #3
UrbanXrisis said:
Zinc+Copper (II) sulfate -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper
or
Zinc+Copper (II) sulfate -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper (II)

The first is correct.

The second does not balance charge.
 

FAQ: Word Equation: Copper (II) Sulfate + Zinc -> Zinc Sulfate + Copper (II)

What is a word equation?

A word equation is a written representation of a chemical reaction using words instead of chemical symbols. It shows the reactants on the left side and the products on the right side, with an arrow indicating the direction of the reaction.

How is a word equation different from a chemical equation?

A chemical equation uses chemical symbols and formulas to represent a reaction, while a word equation uses words. Chemical equations are more specific and precise, while word equations are easier to understand for those who are not familiar with chemical symbols.

What information does a word equation provide?

A word equation provides the names of the reactants and products involved in a chemical reaction, as well as the overall direction of the reaction. It does not provide information on the quantities of each substance or the specific conditions of the reaction.

Why are word equations important in science?

Word equations are important in science because they allow scientists to communicate and understand chemical reactions without needing to know complex chemical symbols and formulas. They also help to visualize and conceptualize the reactants and products involved in a reaction.

How do you balance a word equation?

To balance a word equation, you need to make sure that the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides of the equation. This can be done by adjusting the coefficients (numbers in front of the reactants or products) as needed. It is important to note that the subscripts (numbers within a chemical formula) cannot be changed when balancing an equation.

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