It is observed that when solid copper is added to a solution containing gold ions, the

Question

copper dissolves and the gold precipitates. Similarly, almost every other metal will displace gold from solutions of gold salts.

a. Do these results mean that the gold ion is an unusually good oxidizing agent or poor oxidizing agent? Explain.

b. High end stereo units use gold coated parts. Is the choice of gold based solely on its appearance or can its choice be based on its chemical behavior (reactivity) also? Explain.

Answer 1

I think a is a poorly worded question. Au is a poor reducing agent; Au(III) ion is a good oxidizing agent.

The use of Au in high end stereo units (I have one with Au coated parts) because Au coated contacts resists oxidation by air.