Reaction 1: Zn (s) + CuSO4 (aq) --> Cu (s) + ZnSO4 (aq)
Reaction 2: ZnSO4 (aq) + Cu (s) --> no reaction
Zinc is more reactive. In reaction 1, zinc replaced copper (II) ion to form a new compound with sulfate whereas in reaction 2, copper can not replace zinc to form new compound with sulfate. As a result, zinc is more reactive than copper.
Did I explain correctly? Any keys words I should use? Please help. Thanks