Summary
The Reactivity Series is a list of metals arranged in order of their reactivity from highest to lowest. It helps predict how metals will react with acids, water, and other substances.
- Reactivity Series — a list of metals ranked by their reactivity. Example: Potassium is more reactive than iron.
- Displacement Reaction — a reaction where a more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from its compound. Example: Zinc can displace copper from copper sulfate solution.
- Oxidation — the process of a substance gaining oxygen or losing electrons. Example: Iron rusting when it reacts with oxygen in the air.
- Reduction — the process of a substance losing oxygen or gaining electrons. Example: Copper oxide being reduced to copper when heated with carbon.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Reactivity Series
- Displacement Reaction
- Oxidation
- Reduction
Common Confusions
- Confusing the order of metals in the reactivity series
- Misunderstanding which metals can displace others
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the reactivity series? A list of metals arranged by their reactivity.
- Which metal can displace copper from copper sulfate? Zinc can displace copper.
- What happens in a displacement reaction? A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from its compound.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the reactivity series order
- Ability to predict outcomes of displacement reactions
- Knowledge of oxidation and reduction processes