Standard Reduction Potentials of 1/2 Cells

[Fusilli_Jerry89]

Homework Statement

Use half-reactions and E's to determine the result of storing a solution of CuSO4 in a tin container.

Homework Equations

[Table of Standard Reduction Potentials of Half-Cells]

The Attempt at a Solution

My question isn't exactly how to do this question. I was just wondering, how can you tell whether the Cu2+ ion will react in this way: Cu2+ + 2e- ---> Cu(s) or whether it will react like this: Cu2+ + e- ---> Cu+ ?

 

[symbolipoint]

Which has the greater standard reduction potential? The one for cuprous ion or the one for the tin ion? Check in you table of standard reduction potentials.

 

[Fusilli_Jerry89]

well then how do u know Cu2+ will ever react to form Cu+? Because the reaction that yields Cu(s) always has a high reduction potential.