4.1.1-2 - Metal Oxides & The Reactivity Series

What is oxidation?

When a substance gains oxygen.

What is reduction?

When a substance loses oxygen.

What is the reactivity series of metals?

The series shows the metals in order of their reactivity.

What are the trends in reactivities of metals in reactions with acids/water?

• Metals above H₂ in reactivity series react with acid to produce H₂.

  • The more reactive the metal is, the quicker and more violent reaction with acid occurs.

• Metals below H₂ don’t react with acids.

• Not all metals above H₂ react with water - mostly Group I and II metals. Aluminium is the borderline case.

What is a displacement reaction?

A reaction where a more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from a compound.