Reaction Equation:
Fe(s) + Cu(NO₃)₂(aq) → Fe(NO₃)₂(aq) + Cu(s)
Explanation:
* Iron (Fe) is more reactive than copper (Cu) in the reactivity series of metals. This means iron can displace copper from its compound.
* When iron is added to a copper nitrate solution, the iron atoms will lose electrons and become iron ions (Fe²⁺).
* The copper ions (Cu²⁺) in the solution will gain electrons and become copper atoms, which precipitate out of the solution.
* The nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) remain in solution, forming iron(II) nitrate.
Observations:
* You will see a reddish-brown solid (copper) forming on the surface of the iron.
* The blue color of the copper nitrate solution will fade as it is replaced with the green color of iron(II) nitrate.
Overall: Iron displaces copper from copper nitrate, resulting in the formation of iron(II) nitrate and solid copper.