Chapter 19, Problem 90AP

A piece of magnesium ribbon and a copper wire are partially immersed in a $\text{0}\text{.1}\text{. }M\text{ HCl}$ solution in a beaker. The metals are joined externally by another piece of metal wire. Bubbles are seen to evolve at both the $\text{Mg and Cu}$ surfaces. (a) Write equations representing the reactions occurring at the metals. (b) What visual evidence would you seek to show that $\text{Cu}$ is not oxidized to ${\text{Cu}}^{\text{2-}}$ ? (c) At some stage. $\text{NaOH}$ solution is added to the beaker to neutralize the $\text{HCl}$ acid. Upon further addition of $\text{NaOH}$, a white precipitate forms. What is it?