Chapter U1.27, Problem 5E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Cu² + ion needs to be explained as a Cu metal with 2 missing electrons using a copper plating experiment.

Concept introduction:

Copper plating is an electrochemical reaction in which copper is deposited on a metal.

Answer to Problem 5E

In copper plating experiment a metal is covered with copper which is formed after reduction of Cu^{2 +} .

Thus Cu² + is nothing but a copper atom that is missing two electrons.

Explanation of Solution

In copper plating experiment Cu is taken as anode and any metal which need to be plated by copper is taken as cathode. One electrolyte is taken containing copper ion like copper sulfate.

The reduction of copper is represented as follows:

$C{u}^{2+}+2e\to Cu$

This is the reaction which takes place at cathode and the copper produced by the reduction of Cu² + is deposited on the nickel metal. Thus, nickel strip will be thicker due to deposition of copper atom.

Conclusion

Cu² + is copper ion which has two electrons less as compared to a neutral copper atom.