Expert Chemistry & Science Tutoring

What is the Reactivity Series?

The reactivity series ranks metals in order of their reactivity. It helps predict the outcome of chemical reactions involving metals and other substances.

Importance in GCSE Chemistry

Understanding the reactivity series is crucial for:

• Predicting reactions with acids, bases, and salts
• Determining displacement reactions
• Explaining electrochemical cells
• Interpreting redox reactions

Key Concepts and Definitions

• More reactive metals displace less reactive metals from their compounds (displacement reactions).
• Reactivity increases down the group in the periodic table.
• Alkali metals (Group 1) are the most reactive, while noble gases (Group 18) are the least reactive.

Reactions and Equations

• Displacement Reactions:

```

Fe + CuSO₄ → FeSO₄ + Cu

```

• Reactions with Acids:

```

Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂

```

• Electrochemical Cells:
• More reactive metals act as anodes (oxidized)
• Less reactive metals act as cathodes (reduced)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Confusing reactivity with electronegativity
• Assuming all metals will react with all substances
• Forgetting to balance chemical equations

Practice Problems

• 1. Which metal is more reactive, sodium or zinc?
• Solution: Sodium is more reactive.
• 2. Predict the product of the reaction between iron and copper(II) sulfate:
• Solution: Iron(II) sulfate (FeSO₄) and copper (Cu)

Conclusion

The reactivity series is a fundamental concept in GCSE Chemistry. By understanding it, students can accurately predict and interpret chemical reactions, boosting their exam performance.

Exam Tips

• Memorize the order of metals in the reactivity series
• Practice balancing chemical equations for displacement reactions
• Be prepared to explain the role of reactivity in electrochemical cells

FAQ

• Q: What is the most reactive metal in the reactivity series?
• A: Potassium (K)
• Q: Can noble gases react with metals?
• A: No, noble gases are the least reactive elements.