O-Level Redox Chemistry: worked solution

Question

In another experiment, fluorine gas was passed through a separate solution of copper(II) chloride, producing a solution of copper(II) fluoride. Using a chemical equation to support your answer, explain what is happening chemically in this reaction. [2] [Total: 7]

Fluorine is a more reactive halogen than chlorine (higher up Group 17), so it displaces chlorine from the copper(II) chloride solution. This is a displacement (redox) reaction: fluorine is reduced and chloride is oxidised. Equation: CuCl2 + F2 -> CuF2 + Cl2. The more reactive halogen (fluorine) takes the place of the less reactive halogen (chlorine); fluorine gains electrons (F2 + 2e- -> 2F-) and chloride ions lose electrons (2Cl- -> Cl2 + 2e-), so chlorine is displaced from the compound.