Is Cu2+ Soluble with Cl-? Solubility Dependence on Charge and Size

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the solubility of Cu2+ in the presence of Cl- ions, specifically examining how the charge and size of the copper ions affect their solubility. Participants explore the implications of different oxidation states of copper (Cu+ vs. Cu2+) and the role of the solvent in determining solubility.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether Cu+ and Cu2+ are treated the same regarding solubility, referencing a solubility chart that indicates low solubility for Cu+.
  • Another participant emphasizes that solubility is dependent on the solvent and cannot be generalized without specifying it, suggesting that all substances have some level of solubility defined by the solubility product.
  • A participant provides a link to a solubility table, noting that it includes Cu+ but not Cu2+, and seeks clarification on how different oxidation states affect solubility.
  • One participant argues that Cu(II) should not be assumed to have similar solubility to Cu(I) due to differences in charge density and hydration energy, which may influence solubility.
  • A suggestion is made to look up Latimer's equation to understand the empirical relationship between solubility, charge, and size of ions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the solubility of Cu2+ compared to Cu+, with no consensus reached on whether they should be treated similarly. The role of the solvent in determining solubility is also a point of contention.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the importance of specifying the solvent when discussing solubility and the potential variations in solubility based on the oxidation state of copper ions. Limitations in the provided solubility chart and the assumptions made by participants are noted but not resolved.

Fusilli_Jerry89
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The question asks if Cu2+ is soluble with Cl- or not. I'm looking at my solubility chart and it says Cl- and Cu+ are low solubility. But I am wondering, does it matter if it is Cu+ or Cu2+? Are they both treated the same and therefore low solubile, or is just Cu+ low soluble?
 
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Can you write down the original question EXACTLY as it was given to you?

The solubility product is a strong function of the solvent - you can't speak of solubility without specifying the solvent. If unspecified, one must assume it is in water. Further, there are no absolutes in solubility (everything is soluble to some extent - that extent is defined by the solubility product).

Do you know what a solubility product is?
 
yes i do but it is not necessary in this question. I will show you a copy of the table we get.

http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/exams/search/grade12/english/release/exam/0608CH_p.pdf

(page 24)

Notice how the table has Cu+ on it, but not Cu+2? I was just wondering if both of these ions with different combining capacities are treated as the same thing when determining whether it will be soluble or low soluble.
 
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I can't find the question there, but I do see the table.

No, you can not assume that Cu(II) will have similar solubility to Cu(I). The charge density is much higher, and hence the hydration energy is also greater, making the ion more soluble.

Look up Latimer's equation for the empirical dependence of solubility on charge and size of an ion.
 

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