The reaction proceeds in two steps involving a redox change followed by complex formation:
- Redox Reaction: When KCN is added to Copper sulphate (CuSO4), the Cu2+ ions are first reduced to Cu+ ions by the cyanide ions (similar to the reaction of Cu2+ with I− described in the source). The unstable Cu(CN)2 decomposes to give a white precipitate of Copper(I) cyanide (CuCN) and cyanogen gas (CN)2.
2Cu2++4CN−→2CuCN(s)+(CN)2(g)
- Complex Formation: In the presence of excess KCN, the insoluble CuCN precipitate dissolves to form a stable soluble complex, potassium tetracyanidocuprate(I).
CuCN(s)+3CN−(aq)→[Cu(CN)4]3−(aq)
This specific reaction is highlighted in NCERT Exercise 5.14, asking for the coordination entity formed under these conditions . The resulting complex ion is [Cu(CN)4]3−, where Copper is in the +1 oxidation state.