The Reactivity Series

Question 1

What are the metals in the reactivity series used for based on their reactivity? Give examples.

Answer 1

• The more reactive metals are used in rust prevention known as sacrificial protection when they attach themselves to iron, so they react instead. (Iron is less reactive). For example; you oil bicycle chains; grease nuts and bolts; and paint car body panels.
• The less reactive metals can be used as jewellery, for example platinum, because it won’t react with anything, so it stays shiny.

Question 2

What happens when metals react with water? For example, Zinc + Water (steam).

Answer 2

It forms Zinc Oxide + hydrogen gas. It would be Zinc Hydroxide if it reacted with cold water (not steam).

Question 3

Write a balanced symbol equation for Zinc + Water (steam) with state symbols.

Answer 3

Zn (s) + H₂O (g, because its steam) → ZnO (s) + H₂ (g). It is already balanced.

Question 4

What happens when metals react with oxygen? For example, Magnesium + Oxygen.

Answer 4

It forms a metal oxide. It forms Magnesium Oxide.

Question 5

Write a balanced symbol equation for Magnesium + Oxygen with state symbols.

Answer 5

2Mg (s) + O₂ (g) → 2MgO (s)

Question 6

What happens when metals react with acid?

Answer 6

It forms Salt + Hydrogen Gas

Question 7

Write a balanced symbol equation for Sodium + Hydrochloric acid with state symbols.

Answer 7

2Na (s) + 2HCl (aq) → 2NaCl (aq) + H₂ (g)

Question 8

How does potassium (most reactive metal) react with acid?

Answer 8

Has violently explosive reaction with acid.

Question 9

How does gold (almost least reactive metal) react with acid?

Answer 9

No reaction with dilute acids. Only the strongest mixtures of concentrated acids will attack gold.