A metal X (used for galvanization) is immersed in the aqueous solution of a blue salt YSO₄. Metal Y is deposited on the surface of the solution and a strip of metal X dissolves.

(a) Predict the metal X.

(b) What type of reaction is it?

(c) Write the word equation for this reaction and balance it.

(a) Zinc (Zn)

(b) Displacement reaction

(c) Copper(II) sulphate + Zinc  ⟶  Zinc sulphate + Copper ↓
CuSO₄ (aq.) + Zn ⟶ ZnSO₄ + Cu↓

Explanation — Galvanization involves coating iron with zinc (Zn) to prevent rusting.

So, Metal X  ⟶ Zinc (Zn).

Since Zn displaces Y from its sulphate solution, Zn must be more reactive than Y. The blue salt indicates YSO₄ is CuSO₄ (copper(II) sulphate), which is blue in color.

So, Metal Y  ⟶ Copper (Cu)

YSO₄  ⟶ CuSO₄

A more reactive metal (zinc) displaces a less reactive metal (copper) from its salt solution.

CuSO₄ (aq.) + Zn ⟶ ZnSO₄ + Cu↓