======Copper Oxide and Zinc Displacement Reaction======


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**Alternative titles:** Zinc Reduces Copper Oxide
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Mix small amounts of powdered copper(II) oxide (black) and zinc powder in a heat-resistant container such as a crucible.  
  - Place the container in a fume hood or well-ventilated area with a heat shield.  
  - Use a flame to supply activation energy to one spot in the mixture.  
  - Observe as the reaction spreads through the mixture, releasing bright light and intense heat.  
  - Note color changes: copper oxide (black) turns into zinc oxide (yellow-hot, white when cool) and copper metal (red-brown, may glow).  
  - Allow the reaction to cool completely.  
  - To confirm copper, add dilute hydrochloric acid to dissolve zinc oxide and excess zinc, leaving copper metal behind.



====Links==== 
Reaction between zinc and copper(II) oxide - chemistry edb: 
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Displacement reaction of zinc and copper(II) oxide - Andy's Chemistry: 
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====Variations====
  * Try initiating with a magnesium strip fuse to make ignition safer. 
  * Demonstrate alongside a classic aluminum-iron oxide thermite for comparison of energy release.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Wear safety goggles, heat-resistant gloves, and a lab coat.  
  * Perform behind a safety screen; the reaction is highly exothermic and may spatter molten material.  
  * Handle zinc powder with care; it is flammable in fine form.  
  * Do not look directly at the bright reaction for long periods to avoid eye strain.  
  * Hydrochloric acid is corrosive; handle with care and neutralize spills promptly.  
  * Allow crucible and products to cool fully before handling.




====Questions to Consider====
  * What type of reaction is this? (A single displacement redox reaction)  
  * Which element is oxidized and which is reduced? (Zinc is oxidized to Zn²⁺; copper is reduced to Cu metal)  
  * Why does the reaction release so much heat? (The formation of zinc oxide is highly exothermic, driving the process)  
  * How can you confirm that copper has been formed? (By dissolving zinc oxide and excess zinc with dilute hydrochloric acid, leaving copper behind)  
  * How is this reaction similar to and different from a thermite reaction? (Both are highly exothermic metal-oxide reductions; this one produces copper instead of iron and can be done on a smaller scale)