Part E

Copper sulfate + zinc metal = copper metal + zinc sulfate

CuSO_4(aq) + Zn_(s) => Cu_(s) + ZnSO_4(aq)

Step 1 Weigh about 4.00 grams of zinc and add it to the solution formed in step C. Click to see the reaction.

This is a displacement reaction where metal copper is formed and zinc metal is dissolved according to the equation below.

Cu²⁺_(aq) + Zn_(s) => Zn²⁺_(aq) + Cu_(s)

Step 2 Add about 3 mL of the sulfuric acid solution to dissolve any remaining unreacted zinc metal.

Step 3 Weigh a piece of filter paper.

Step 5 Allow the filter paper and the copper obtained to dry over night.

Step 6 Weigh the dry filter paper and the copper.

1) Calculate the mass of copper present?

2) Why is it necessary to dry the copper and the filter paper?

3) Why must we wash the copper metal trapped in the filter paper several times with distilled water?