Making predictions using the reactivity series
2 marks · EasyGallium is a metal that is placed between aluminium and zinc in the reactivity series. Copper is below both aluminium and zinc in the reactivity series.
Predict whether gallium will be able to displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution. Use the reactivity series to explain your reasoning.
Will gallium displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution? Explain your answer using the reactivity series.
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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Yes, gallium will displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution because gallium is above copper in the reactivity series, meaning gallium is more reactive than copper.
Also accept: Gallium will react with copper(II) sulfate because it is more reactive than copper.
Common mistakes: Stating gallium will not react; Mixing up the positions of gallium and copper
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Marking points
M1 (a) · 1 mark · States that gallium will displace copper or will react with the solution based on the reactivity series.
A1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly explains that gallium is above copper in the reactivity series and is therefore more reactive.
Worked solution
Gallium lies between aluminium and zinc, both of which are above copper in the reactivity series.
A metal can displace another metal from a compound if it is higher (more reactive) in the reactivity series.
Because gallium is above copper, it is more reactive. Therefore, gallium will displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution:
So gallium will react and copper metal will be formed.