Metal Reactivity

Metal Reactivity Series Reaction w/ Acid (gives ) Reaction w/ Water (gives )
Vigorous (dangerous) Vigorous
Vigorous (dangerous) Vigorous
Vigorous (dangerous) Vigorous
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
Normal Slow with water, normal w/ steam
No reaction No reaction
No reaction No reaction
No reaction No reaction
No reaction No reaction
  • When completing questions like these, observe the substance that is required to lose/gain electrons. This will have an impact on the interpretation of the metal reactivity series, as the more reactive metal (according to this table) will lose electrons.
  • For instance, take a reduction equation of
    • In order for aluminium to gain electrons, copper needs to lose electrons. However, copper is below aluminium in the reactivity series; therefore, no displacement will occur.
  • The further apart the two metals are, the stronger/more vigorous the reaction.