.2 the reactivity series

• When metals react with other substances the metal atoms form positive ions
• The reactivity of a metal is related to its tendency to form positive ions
• Metals can be arranged in order of their reactivity in a reactivity series
• The metals potassium, sodium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and copper can be put in order of their reactivity from their reactions with water and dilute acids.
• The non-metals hydrogen and carbon are often included in the reactivity series
• A more reactive metal can displace a less reactive metal from a compound.
• The reactions of metals with water and acids are limited to room temperature and do not include reactions with steam.