Electrochemical series (intro)
Redox Reactions · Chemistry
Study notes
Will Zn displace Cu²⁺ from solution? E°(Zn²⁺/Zn) = −0.76 V, E°(Cu²⁺/Cu) = +0.34 V. Step 1: Zn has LOWER E° → stronger reducing agent (loses electrons). Step 2: Cu²⁺ has HIGHER E° → gets reduced to Cu. Step 3: Zn + Cu²⁺ → Zn²⁺ + Cu occurs spontaneously. Step 4: Reverse (Cu + Zn²⁺) won't happen — Cu can't reduce Zn²⁺. The series predicts every displacement reaction.