The Reactivity Series & Displacement Reactions

• factor determines the reactivity of a metal:

  • How easily the atoms of that element lose their outer electrons
• group 1 metals are the most reactive
• Metals lose electrons, and as electrons are negative, this will give them a positive charge
• metals react more violently with acid compared to water
• Metal + acid ➔ salt + hydrogen
• Magnesium + hydrochloric acid ➔ magnesium chloride + hydrogen
• the reactivity series:

  • Potassium
  • Sodium
  • lithium
  • Calcium
  • Magnesium
  • Aluminium
  • Zinc
  • Iron
  • Lead
  • Copper
  • Silver