Final answer:
When we add zinc to copper sulfate, a redox reaction occurs. The zinc metal is oxidized and the copper ions are reduced, resulting in the formation of Zn2+ ions and metallic copper.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we add zinc (Zn) to copper sulfate (CuSO4), a redox reaction occurs. The zinc metal acts as the reducing agent and loses electrons to become Zn2+ ions. At the same time, the copper ions (Cu2+) gain electrons and are reduced to metallic copper (Cu). This reaction is spontaneous and can be represented by the overall reaction Zn(s) + Cu2+(aq) -> Zn2+(aq) + Cu(s).