Will there be a reaction if a magnesium strip is placed in a solution containing Zn2+ ions?
To determine if there will be a reaction when a magnesium strip is placed in a solution containing Zn2+ ions, you need to consider the reactivity of magnesium and the potential for a redox reaction.
Magnesium is a more reactive metal than zinc, according to the reactivity series. It means that magnesium has a higher tendency to lose electrons and undergo oxidation. On the other hand, zinc is less reactive and has a lower tendency to undergo reduction.
So, when a magnesium strip is placed in a solution containing Zn2+ ions, a redox reaction can occur. Magnesium will undergo oxidation and lose electrons, while zinc ions (Zn2+) will undergo reduction and gain electrons.
The overall balanced chemical equation for the reaction can be written as:
Mg (s) + Zn2+ (aq) â Mg2+ (aq) + Zn (s)
In this reaction, the magnesium strip will dissolve into the solution, forming magnesium ions (Mg2+) and releasing electrons. These electrons will be acquired by the Zn2+ ions, which will be reduced to form solid zinc (Zn) metal.
Therefore, there will indeed be a reaction when a magnesium strip is placed in a solution containing Zn2+ ions.