Question

A solution of ${\text{CuSO}}_4$ was kept in an iron pot. After a few days, the iron pot was found to have a number of holes in it. Explain the reason in terms of reactivity. Write the equation of the reaction involved.

Answer 1

$\text{Fe}$ is more reactive than $\text{Cu}$ and hence, it displaces the less reactive $\text{Cu}$ from ${\text{CuSO}}_4$ solution. In this case, iron metal from iron pot is participating in the reaction due to which holes are formed in the vessel. The reaction occurs as follows:

$\text{Fe(s)}+{\text{CuSO}}_4\text{(aq)}\to {\text{FeSO}}_4\text{(aq)}+\text{Cu(s)}$