When a copper wire is placed in a solution of `AgNO_(3)`, the solution acquires blue colour. This is due to

Options

A. oxidation of Cu
B. reduction of Cu
C. formation of a soluble complex
D. oxidation of Ag.

Answer

To solve the question, "When a copper wire is placed in a solution of `AgNO_(3)`, the solution acquires blue color. This is due to," we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Reactivity Series
The reactivity series of metals indicates that some metals are more reactive than others. In this case, copper (Cu) is more reactive than silver (Ag).

**Hint:** Remember that the reactivity series helps us predict which metals can displace others in a reaction.

### Step 2: Identify the Reaction
When copper is placed in silver nitrate solution (`AgNO3`), a displacement reaction occurs. Copper displaces silver from the solution because it is more reactive.

**Hint:** Look for displacement reactions where a more reactive metal displaces a less reactive one from its compound.

### Step 3: Write the Reaction Equation
The reaction can be represented as:
\[ \text{Cu (s)} + 2 \text{AgNO}_3 (aq) \rightarrow \text{Cu(NO}_3\text{)}_2 (aq) + 2 \text{Ag (s)} \]
Here, copper nitrate is formed, and solid silver is precipitated out.

**Hint:** Writing the balanced chemical equation helps visualize the reactants and products involved.

### Step 4: Analyze the Color Change
The blue color of the solution is due to the presence of `Cu^{2+}` ions in the aqueous solution of copper nitrate. When copper oxidizes, it forms `Cu^{2+}` ions, which impart a blue color to the solution.

**Hint:** Color changes in solutions often indicate the presence of certain ions; in this case, `Cu^{2+}` ions are responsible for the blue color.

### Step 5: Identify Oxidation and Reduction
In this reaction:
- Copper (Cu) is oxidized from an oxidation state of 0 to +2.
- Silver ions (Ag^+) are reduced from +1 to 0.

This is a redox reaction where oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously.

**Hint:** Remember that oxidation involves the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons.

### Conclusion
The blue color of the solution is due to the formation of `Cu^{2+}` ions as a result of the oxidation of copper. Therefore, the correct answer is option (a) oxidation of copper.

**Final Answer:** The solution acquires blue color due to the oxidation of copper.