Title: Testing the oxidizing abilities of metal ions using displacement reactions.

Problem Question:
John and Sarah are interested in the oxidizing abilities of Cu 2+, Pb2+ and Ag+. Sarah thinks that
Ag+ is the best oxidizing agent of the three but John suggests that Cu 2+ might be a better
oxidizing agent. Plan and design an experiment to compare the relative oxidizing abilities of
these metal ions.
Hypothesis: Copper and lead ions would displace silver ions, making silver ions to have the
best oxidizing ability.
Aim: To compare the relative oxidizing abilities of Cu2+, Pb2+ and Ag+.
Apparatus/Materials: sample solids of lead and silver, 2 pieces of copper wire, test tube rack,
test tubes(4), forceps, 2 beakers(50ml), measuring cylinder(10 ml). petri-dish, AgNO3(aq)
(10ml), Pb(NO3)2(aq)(10ml).
Method:

Rinse all apparatus thoroughly.

Transfer 2cm3 of AgNO3 to 2 test tubes.
Add a copper wire to one of the test tubes and the lead sample to the other test tube.
Leave both test tubes in the test tube rack to stand for a few minutes.
Record all observations in a suitable table.
Using Pb(NO3)2, repeat steps 2-5 for the remaining copper wire and silver sample.

Variables:
Independent variable: type of metal used(the one you are controlling),
Dependent variable: metal ions (Cu2+, Pb2+ and Ag+) (the one you will be recording results
for),
Controlled variables: amount of AgNO3 used. (all other variables that must be kept constant)

Expected results: shows how results will be recorded (tables, graphs etc), if tables are being
used then draw empty tables with headings and title.
If graphs are being used state which variable should be plotted on which axis.
Outline steps to be taken for any calculations
State your inferences
Discussion: Describe what results should be expected (if known) with explanations, write
relevant equations, and explain the theory behind the method chosen

Limitations/Assumption: shortcomings of you design which may become sources of error and
list any assumptions made.