Electrode Potentials Question

Which of the following statements is correct if
Standard reduction potentials of Cu and Sn are 0.337V and -0.136V resp. (both from +2 charge)

a) Cu2+ ions can be reduced by H2(g)
b) Cu can be oxidised by H+
c) Sn2+ ions can be oxidised by H2(g)
d) Cu can reduce Sn2+

I am confused between reduction/oxidation of ions/metals by H2 or H+. I don't have any idea of correctly employing the given reduction potential values in each case. I tried and deduced that c) and d) must be incorrect. No idea about a) and b)

Please provide me clear explanation of this.
Thanks in advance.

2 Answers

23
qwerty ·

Cu2++2e- → Cu, ΔG1

2H++2e- → H2 ,ΔG2

reaction 1 - 2 gives

Cu2+ + H2 → Cu + 2H+,ΔG = ΔG1-ΔG2

if ΔG < 0 , reaction is favourable

1
swordfish ·

Thanks!

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