Chemistry (reactivity series)

Physical properties of metals

Malleable, ductile, good conductor of heat, good conductors of electricity

Malleable and ductile

When a force is applied, the layers of atoms in a metal can slide over each other easily

high density

The atoms in metals are packed together very closely. There is little empty space between the atoms.

Alloy

Mixture of metal with one or a few other metallic or non-metallic elements.

Metal reactivity series

Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Aluminium, Zinc, Iron, Tin, Lead, Hydrogen, Copper, Silver, Gold

Reaction of metals with water

metal + water →metal hydroxide + hydrogen

Reaction of metal with steam

metal + steam →metal oxide + hydrogen

Reaction of metals with hydrochloric acid

metal + hydrochloric acid →metal chloride + hydrogen

What are the conditions for rusting to occur

oxygen, water (presence of dissolved salts make it faster)

Coat surface with oil

Layer acts as a barrier preventing oxygen and water from coming into contact

coat with a less reactive metal

It helps preventing oxygen and water from coming into contact with the surface. However it will rust quickly if layer is scratched