Chemical Reactions Prediction Using Standard Reduction Potential Table

Which reaction will occur spontaneously based on the standard reduction potential table?

A) Cu(s) + 2Ag⁺(aq) → Cu²⁺(aq) + 2Ag(s)
B) 2 Fe³⁺(aq) + 2Cl^-(aq) → 2Fe²⁺(aq) + Cl₂(g)
C) Mn²⁺(aq) + 4H₂O(l) + 2Fe³⁺(aq) → 2Fe²⁺(aq) + MnO₄^-(aq) + 8H^-(aq)

Answer:

The correct answer is A) Cu(s) + 2Ag⁺(aq) → Cu²⁺(aq) + 2Ag(s).

In predicting which reaction will occur spontaneously based on the standard reduction potential table, we need to look at the standard reduction potentials of the involved elements. The reaction that occurs spontaneously is the one with a higher standard reduction potential.

In the given options:

A) Cu(s) + 2Ag⁺(aq) → Cu²⁺(aq) + 2Ag(s)
B) 2 Fe³⁺(aq) + 2Cl^-(aq) → 2Fe²⁺(aq) + Cl₂(g)
C) Mn²⁺(aq) + 4H₂O(l) + 2Fe³⁺(aq) → 2Fe²⁺(aq) + MnO₄^-(aq) + 8H^-(aq)

The standard reduction potential table indicates that Cu²⁺/Cu has a higher standard reduction potential than Ag⁺/Ag. Therefore, the reaction A) Cu(s) + 2Ag⁺(aq) → Cu²⁺(aq) + 2Ag(s) will occur spontaneously.

Understanding standard reduction potentials is crucial in predicting the spontaneity of redox reactions and the direction in which electrons flow. By comparing the standard reduction potentials of different half-reactions, we can determine which reaction will proceed forward spontaneously.