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According to the chemical reactivity series, which metal is less reactive than zinc?
Calcium
Magnesium
Iron
Potassium
Iron
The reactivity series arranges metals in descending order of their ability to displace other metals from their compounds. Iron (Fe) is positioned below zinc (Zn) in this series, meaning it has a lower tendency to lose electrons to form positive ions compared to zinc.
The reactivity series arranges metals in descending order of their ability to displace other metals from their compounds. Iron (Fe) is positioned below zinc (Zn) in this series, meaning it has a lower tendency to lose electrons to form positive ions compared to zinc.
Think of the reactivity series as a 'social hierarchy' of metals; metals higher up are more 'active' and social, readily giving away their electrons to bond with others, while those below are more 'reserved' and stable in their elemental form.
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Zn+FeSO4тАЛтЖТZnSO4тАЛ+Fe
Ecell0тАЛ=Ecathode0тАЛтИТEanode0тАЛ
The reactivity of a metal is determined by its ionization energy and electrode potential. Metals higher in the series have a lower standard reduction potential (E0), making them stronger reducing agents. Since zinc has a more negative reduction potential than iron (Zn2++2eтИТтЖТZn is тИТ0.76V vs Fe2++2eтИТтЖТFe at тИТ0.44V), zinc is chemically more reactive.
Potassium, Sodium, and Calcium are highly reactive metals.
Iron, Lead, and Copper are transition metals that show lower reactivity compared to the alkaline earth metals.
Displacement reactions are the primary way to test the reactivity of metals in the laboratory.
Predicts whether a metal will displace another from an aqueous solution.
Helps in understanding the extraction processes of metals from their ores.
Does not account for surface passivation where a thin oxide layer protects the metal from reacting.
Selection of appropriate electrodes for electrochemical cells.
Understanding the corrosion process and prevention of rusting.
Standard Reactivity order: K>Na>Ca>Mg>Zn>Fe>Pb>Cu>Ag>Au.
Option A (Calcium), Option B (Magnesium), and Option D (Potassium) are all placed above zinc in the reactivity series, making them more reactive.
C is correct тАФ Iron is positioned below zinc in the reactivity series, indicating lower chemical reactivity.
Always memorize the first six elements of the reactivity series, as they are frequently involved in competitive exam questions regarding displacement and reactivity.