Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion

Zn + 2Ag+ → Zn2+ + 2Ag

Overview

Zinc reduces silver ions to metallic silver with a large cell potential of +1.56 V. Zinc is oxidized from 0 to +2 while silver is reduced from +1 to 0. This reaction proceeds vigorously due to the large potential difference between zinc and silver electrodes.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Zinc Zn 1 (s)
Reactant Silver Nitrate AgNO₃ 2 (aq)
Product Silver Ag 2 (s)

Everyday Example

Zinc's strong reducing power is exploited in zinc-silver oxide button cell batteries used in watches, hearing aids, and calculators.

Industrial Importance

Silver oxide-zinc batteries provide high energy density for miniature electronic devices. Silver recovery from waste uses zinc cementation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion?
The balanced equation is: Zn + 2Ag⁺ → Zn²⁺ + 2Ag.
What type of reaction is Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion?
Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion is a redox reaction.
Is Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion exothermic or endothermic?
Zinc Reduction of Silver Ion is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -310.0 kJ/mol.