Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement

Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu

Overview

Zinc is oxidized from Zn⁰ to Zn²⁺ while copper is reduced from Cu²⁺ to Cu⁰ in this classic redox displacement reaction. Zinc loses two electrons (oxidation) that are gained by copper ions (reduction). The blue CuSO₄ solution becomes colorless as copper metal deposits on the zinc.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Reactant	Zinc Zn	1	(s)
Reactant	Copper(II) Sulfate CuSO₄	1	(aq)
Product	Copper Cu	1	(s)
Product	Zinc Sulfate ZnSO₄	1	(aq)

Everyday Example

This reaction is the basis of the Daniell cell, one of the earliest practical batteries, invented in 1836.

Industrial Importance

Cementation of copper by zinc or iron is used in hydrometallurgical copper recovery from mine drainage and leach solutions.

Properties

Type: Redox
Reversible: No
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -218.7 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Aqua Regia Dissolving Gold Bleaching with Sodium Hypochlorite Cerium(IV) Reduction by Iron(II) Chlorine Oxidation of Bromide Chromate-Dichromate Equilibrium Contact Process SO₂ Oxidation Copper Displaced by Iron Copper Oxidation by Nitric Acid Copper Patina Formation (Verdigris) Copper Reduction of Silver Ion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement?

The balanced equation is: Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu.

What type of reaction is Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement?

Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement is a redox reaction.

Is Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement exothermic or endothermic?

Zinc and Copper Sulfate Displacement is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -218.7 kJ/mol.