Class 8 Exam  >  Class 8 Questions  >  Why copper does not react with dilute hydroch... Start Learning for Free
Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Most Upvoted Answer
Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Introduction:
Copper is a chemical element that is known for its excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance. It is commonly used in various applications such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and heat exchangers. One of the reasons for its widespread use is its inertness towards certain chemicals, including dilute hydrochloric acid. In this response, we will explore the reasons why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Explanation:

1. Protective oxide layer:
Copper forms a thin layer of oxide on its surface when exposed to air. This oxide layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing further oxidation and corrosion of the underlying metal. When copper is placed in dilute hydrochloric acid, this oxide layer remains intact and prevents direct contact between the metal and the acid. As a result, the acid cannot react with the copper.

2. Acid passivation:
Dilute hydrochloric acid is not strong enough to dissolve or corrode the oxide layer on copper. The acid molecules are not able to penetrate the oxide layer and reach the underlying metal surface. Therefore, the acid is unable to initiate a chemical reaction with copper.

3. Lack of oxidizing agent:
Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid, but it does not possess strong oxidizing properties. In order for a chemical reaction to occur between a metal and an acid, an oxidizing agent is often required to facilitate the transfer of electrons. In the case of dilute hydrochloric acid, there is a lack of a suitable oxidizing agent to oxidize the copper atoms and allow the reaction to take place.

4. Low reactivity of copper:
Copper is known for its low reactivity compared to other metals. It has a relatively low tendency to lose electrons and form positive ions. This low reactivity makes it less susceptible to corrosion and chemical reactions with acids. Therefore, even in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid, copper remains unreactive due to its inherent properties.

Conclusion:
In summary, copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid due to the presence of a protective oxide layer on its surface, the inability of the acid to dissolve this layer, the lack of an oxidizing agent, and the low reactivity of copper itself. These factors contribute to the inertness of copper towards dilute hydrochloric acid, allowing it to be used in various applications where chemical resistance is required.
Community Answer
Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Because copper below the hydrogen in reactivity series so copper can't displace it from acid so it will not react with dilute hydrochloric acid
Attention Class 8 Students!
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 8 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 8.
Explore Courses for Class 8 exam

Top Courses for Class 8

Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Question Description
Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? for Class 8 2024 is part of Class 8 preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the Class 8 exam syllabus. Information about Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? covers all topics & solutions for Class 8 2024 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?.
Solutions for Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? in English & in Hindi are available as part of our courses for Class 8. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for Class 8 Exam by signing up for free.
Here you can find the meaning of Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? defined & explained in the simplest way possible. Besides giving the explanation of Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid?, a detailed solution for Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? has been provided alongside types of Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? theory, EduRev gives you an ample number of questions to practice Why copper does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid? tests, examples and also practice Class 8 tests.
Explore Courses for Class 8 exam

Top Courses for Class 8

Explore Courses
Signup for Free!
Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days! Learn & Practice with 1000+ FREE Notes, Videos & Tests.
10M+ students study on EduRev