Question: is lead with hydrochloric acid a redox reaction? if so, please explain the formation of precipitate lead chloride.

  1. Are you trying to get us to do your homework? 🙂

    Reduction potential of HCl or just H in this case: 2H1+ + 2e = H2; E=0
    Reduction potential of Pb: Pb2+ + 2e1- = Pb; E= -.13
    Reduction potential of Pb is lower than H, so list H first.
    2H^1+ + Pb -> H2 + Pb^2+

    I totally just got that via Google, so take no responsibility if it’s wrong!!!

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  2. Ha, nice Mia! I wish I had google when I was at school.

    Lead does undergo a redox reaction with HCl however its quickly protected by an inert layer of lead chloride PbCl2 which is insoluble in water. This can then protect the rest of the material. But you’re interested in that initial reaction.

    The rection is of redox nature as the solid lead is oxidised by the acid and can form a strong ionic bond with the chloride ions, releasing hydrogen gas.

    So, yes. @mia and her googling are halfway correct.

    Pb goes to Pb2+ +2e-
    2HCl goes to 2Cl- + H2(g)
    summing Pb + 2HCl goes to PbCl2 + H2(g)

    Hope this makes your homework a tad easier 😉

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