Making predictions using the reactivity series
2 marks · EasyA lump of nickel is placed in copper(II) sulfate solution. Explain what happens, using the reactivity series.
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Nickel is above copper in the reactivity series, so it will displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution. Nickel will go into solution as nickel(II) ions and copper metal will be deposited.
Also accept: Nickel will displace copper from solution.; Nickel reacts with copper(II) sulfate, copper forms, nickel ions go into solution.
Common mistakes: No reaction occurs; Reverse displacement
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States that nickel is above copper in the reactivity series and will displace copper from solution.
A1 · 1 mark · Describes the observation: copper is deposited, nickel ions go into solution.
Worked solution
Nickel is above copper in the reactivity series, so it displaces copper from copper(II) sulfate solution.
Copper metal is formed, nickel goes into solution as Ni2+ ions.