This equation describes a chemical reaction between copper(II) chloride (CuCl2) and zinc (Zn), resulting in zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and copper (Cu). This is a redox reaction, in which zinc is oxidized and copper is reduced.
- Reaction Conditions
This reaction occurs readily under room temperature and atmospheric pressure. CuCl2 is usually dissolved in water to create a solution before it comes into contact with zinc.
- Reaction Process
During the reaction process, zinc (Zn) gives electrons to the copper ion (Cu2+) to become zinc ion (Zn2+) and copper (Cu).
Zn -> Zn2+ + 2e-
Cu2+ + 2e- -> Cu
- Phenomena Occurring
When copper(II) chloride solution comes into contact with zinc, the color of the solution changes from light blue (the color of CuCl2) to colorless (the color of ZnCl2), and reddish-brown copper particles appear at the bottom of the bottle. The solution also releases heat when the reaction takes place.