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Chapter 23: Problem 53

Although Au reacts with and dissolves in aqua regia (3 parts \(\mathrm{HCl}+1\) part \(\mathrm{HNO}_{3}\) ), Ag does not dissolve. What is (are) the likely reason(s) for this difference?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The likely reasons for the difference in reactivity between gold (Au) and silver (Ag) with aqua regia lie in the different reactivities of the metals, the stability of their ions, and the solubility of their chloride complexes. Gold can be oxidized by nitric acid and react with chloride to form a soluble complex, while silver forms insoluble silver chloride that reduces further reaction.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Role of Aqua Regia

Aqua regia, a mixture of hydrochloric acid (\(\mathrm{HCl}\)) and nitric acid (\(\mathrm{HNO}_{3}\), is known for its ability to dissolve gold, a metal that does not react with a single acid alone. Nitric acid is a strong oxidizing agent that can oxidize gold to a stable +3 oxidation state. The chloride ions from the hydrochloric acid then complex with the gold ions, creating soluble complexes that can dissolve in the solution.
02

Consider the Reactivity of Silver

Silver, while lower in the reactivity series compared to many metals, does not readily form a stable oxidation state like gold does. Additionally, silver chloride formed in the reaction with hydrochloric acid is insoluble and forms a protective layer around the silver metal, reducing further reaction.
03

Compare Gold and Silver

The main reason for the difference in reaction between gold and silver in aqua regia lies in their different reactivities, the stability of their ions, and the solubility of their chloride complexes. Gold forms a stable ion that reacts with chloride to form a soluble complex, while silver cannot form a similar soluble complex and is protected from further reaction by the formation of insoluble silver chloride.

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