Ag (aq) Cu(s) -> Ag(s) Cu (aq) In this equation: Ag (aq) represents silver ions in aqueous solution, Cu(s) represents copper in its solid state, Ag(s) represents silver in its solid state, Cu (aq) represents copper ions in aqueous solution. Dropping silver out of solution. By introducing solid copper to silver nitrate, a chemical reaction occurs. An exchange of ions between copper and silver causes silver atoms to become neutral and pop out of the solution as a solid. Science baby! Lithic Metals