The reactivity series of metals

• What does the reactivity series of metals show?

  It shows metals in order of reactivity.
• How is the reactivity of a metal related to its tendency to form positive ions?

  The more reactive a metal is, the more easily it loses electrons to form positive ions.
• Which metals are extracted from their ores in various ways?

  Iron and aluminium.
• What is the definition of a metal in the context of the reactivity series?

  • A shiny element
  • A good conductor of electricity and heat
  • Forms basic oxides
• What happens when metals react with other substances?

  The metal atoms lose electrons to form positive ions.
• What is the reactivity series?

  It is a chart showing metals in order of decreasing reactivity.
• How does the reactivity of a metal affect its reactions?

  The more reactive a metal is, the more vigorous its reactions are.
• What is produced when a metal reacts with water?

  A metal hydroxide and hydrogen are formed.
• What is the reaction equation when sodium reacts with water?

  $2Na(s) +$$2H_2O(l) \rightarrow 2NaOH(aq) +$$H_2(g)$
• What happens to the universal indicator when lithium reacts with water?

  The colour changes from green to purple as lithium hydroxide is produced.
• What is produced when a metal reacts with a dilute acid?

  A salt and hydrogen are formed.
• What is the reaction equation when magnesium reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid?

  $Mg(s) +$$2HCl(aq) \rightarrow MgCl_2(aq) +$$H_2(g)$
• What is the significance of a metal being below hydrogen in the reactivity series?

  It will not react with dilute acids.
• Why will platinum not react with dilute acids?

  Because platinum is below hydrogen in the reactivity series.
• What is always produced when a metal reacts with water or a dilute acid?

  Hydrogen is always produced.