The n factor, also known as the equivalent factor or equivalent weight factor, represents the number of equivalents of a substance involved in a particular reaction or process. It is determined by the number of electrons gained, lost, or exchanged by one molecule or ion of the substance.
For CuSO4 (copper(II) sulfate), the n factor depends on the reaction or process under consideration. Here are a few examples:
- Oxidation-Reduction Reaction: In a redox reaction where CuSO4 is reduced to copper metal (Cu), the n factor of CuSO4 is 1. This is because one mole of CuSO4 is required to provide one mole of Cu2+ ions, which accepts two electrons during reduction.
CuSO4 + 2e- → Cu + SO4^2-
- Acid-Base Neutralization Reaction: In an acid-base reaction, such as the reaction of CuSO4 with a strong base like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the n factor of CuSO4 is also 1. Each mole of CuSO4 reacts with one mole of hydroxide ions (OH-) to form copper(II) hydroxide (Cu(OH)2).
CuSO4 + 2NaOH → Cu(OH)2 + Na2SO4
In both cases, the n factor of CuSO4 is 1, representing the transfer or involvement of one equivalent of CuSO4 in the respective reactions.