Chemical Forums
Chemistry Forums for Students => Analytical Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: sodiumman on November 08, 2009, 06:30:05 PM
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Hi Forum,
I teach hs chem in Australia. Aware of the 3d10, 4s2 structure of zinc, so why is it so much more reactive than copper, that seems to have incomplete shells?
Ta,Dave
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Reactivity doesn't depend on electronic configuration alone. There are other factors like IE, HE and SE.
IE= Ionization enthalpy
HE = Hydration enthalpy
SE = Sublimation enthalpy.
You have to compare the Eo values as well.
This incorporates all the 3 factors.
Thus, you get a more accurate picture of reactivity.
Also, refer to the reactivity series to see that Zn well above Cu.