Explain why Zn is released and write the general equation.

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prishila
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Homework Statement


We throw clean Zn in a HCl solution and see that nothing happens. We add 2-3 drops CuSO4 and some kind of gas starts to release. Why dos this happen? Write the equation

Homework Equations


Zn+HCl->ZnCl2+H2

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that equation and also:
Zn+CuSo4->ZnSo4+Cu
But why doesn't H2 release in the first experiment? Maybe because it is too clean. COuld you also hep me with the general equation?
 

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Zn reacts from the very beginning, just slowly. Traces of copper reduced on the Zn surface speed up the reaction between Zn and H+.