Making predictions using the reactivity series
3 marks · EasyCalcium, lead and iron are placed in the following order in the reactivity series: calcium > iron > lead.
Which of these three metals would you expect to react most quickly with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Predict which of these metals would not react at all with cold water.
Explain your answer to part b.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) Calcium.
(b) Lead.
(c) Lead is below hydrogen in the reactivity series, so it does not react with cold water.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Identifies calcium as reacting most quickly with dilute hydrochloric acid.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Identifies lead as not reacting with cold water.
B3 (c) · 1 mark · Explains that lead is below hydrogen in the reactivity series so does not react with cold water.
Worked solution
a) Calcium is highest in the reactivity series, so reacts most quickly with acids.
b) Lead is least reactive and does not react with cold water.
c) Metals below hydrogen in the reactivity series do not react with water at room temperature.