An iron nail (Fe) is placed into a solution of copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4). After some time, the blue color of the copper(II) sulfate disappears and some copper-colored solid (Cu) is found on the surface of the nail. The solution now contains iron(II) sulfate (FeSO4), and the container feels warmer than before the reaction.

Does this reaction absorb or release energy? How do you know?

Question

An iron nail (Fe) is placed into a solution of copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4). After some time, the blue color of the copper(II) sulfate disappears and some copper-colored solid (Cu) is found on the surface of the nail. The solution now contains iron(II) sulfate (FeSO4), and the container feels warmer than before the reaction.


Does this reaction absorb or release energy? How do you know?

blues · Answer

Please post chemistry questions in the chemistry group. http://openstudy.com/study#/groups/Chemistry. Thanks!

blues · Answer

And please do not spam by posting the same question twice. If you would like to publicise a question, post it then post the link to it in the chat. Thanks again.

anonymous · Answer

The reaction is exothermic. This can be determined because the heat of the system is increasing as the reaction occurs.