Solid aluminum is placed in a beaker with a blue solution of copper (II) nitrate. The resulting reaction causes the blue solution to turn colorless. The solid aluminum is consumed while a spongy, dark brown solid forms. Based on the observations listed above, which of the following inference (s) would be valid?

A. A synthesis reaction occurred.

B. A single replacement reaction occurred.

C. A double replacement reaction occurred.

D. A redox reaction occurred.

Question

Preston Watson

Chemistry

13 October, 08:39

Solid aluminum is placed in a beaker with a blue solution of copper (II) nitrate. The resulting reaction causes the blue solution to turn colorless. The solid aluminum is consumed while a spongy, dark brown solid forms. Based on the observations listed above, which of the following inference (s) would be valid?

A. A synthesis reaction occurred.

B. A single replacement reaction occurred.

C. A double replacement reaction occurred.

D. A redox reaction occurred.

+3

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Lilia Frye · Answer 1

Option D. A redox reaction occurred.

Explanation:

From the question given above it evident that a redox reaction has occurred because there is a colour change when aluminum was introduced into the beaker containing blue solution of copper (II) nitrate.

The equation for the reaction is given below below:

2Al + 3Cu (NO3) 2 - > 2Al (NO3) 3 + 3Cu

The oxidation number of Al changes from 0 to + 2 indicating oxidation and the oxidation number of Cu changes from + 2 to 0 indicating reduction.

As the oxidation - reduction reaction occurs, a colour change is observed.