Question

An iron rod is immersed in a solution containing 1.0 M NiSO₄ and 1.0 M ZnSO₄ Predict giving reasons which of the following reaction is likely to proceed? 

(i) Fe reduces Zn²⁺ ions. 

(ii) Iron reduces Ni²⁺ ions. 

Given E° Zn²⁺/Zn = 0.76 V 

E° Fe²⁺/Fe = 0.44 V 

E° Ni²⁺/Ni =  0.25 V

Answer 1

(i) Since E° of Zn is more negative than F therefore Zn will be oxidized to Zn²⁺ ions and Fe²⁺ be reduced to Fe. In other words, Fe will not reduce Zn 

(ii) Since E° of Fe is more negative than that of therefore, Fe will be oxidized to Fe²⁺ ions while Ni²⁺ be reduced to Ni. Thus, Fe reduces Ni²⁺ ions.