Chemistry - Reactivity of Metals 2

Water and Metals

Calcium

Sinks in cold water, bubbles of hydrogen slowly form which can be collected in a test tube and a splint test could be done.

Copper

Sinks in cold water, does not react with water.

Sodium

Floats on water, reacts vigorously releasing hydrogen and forming sodium hydroxide. A fizzing sound is heard.

Iron

Sinks in water and no bubbles of hydrogen form, but can react with water at higher temperatures, producing iron oxide.

Magnesium

Sinks in water, bubbles of hydrogen form very slowly and forms a clear solution of magnesium oxide.

Potassium

Floats on water, reacts vigorously with water, producing hydrogen and a clear solution of potassium is formed