Reactivity Series


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Reactivity Series

Reactivity Series:

The reactivity series of the metals, also known as the activity series, refers to the arrangement of metals in the descending order of the reactivities. The reactivity of metals differs from metal to metal. Some of the metals are more reactive, while others are less reactive towards chemical reagents. The metals that can lose electrons easily and form positively charged ions are more reactive. Those that cannot lose electrons easily are less reactive. Metals can be arranged in the order of decreasing reactivity in a series. This series is called the activity or reactivity series of metals.

The series has been derived after studying many chemical reactions. Copper (Cu), mercury (Hg) and silver (Ag) react with HNO3, but do not produce H2. In these reactions, the metal is oxidized to the metal ion and NO_3^-   ion is reduced to NO_2  or other nitrogen species. It may be asked, why hydrogen, being a nonmetal, has been included in the activity series. It is because hydrogen, like metals, can part with its electron to form a positive ion or cation.

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Sample Questions
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Question : 1

Which of the following is highly reactive metal in each of the following ?

Right Option : C
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Question : 2

Metals can be arranged in the order of ___________________ reactivity in a series.

Right Option : B
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Question : 3

The metals that can _______________ electrons easily and form positively charged ions are more reactive.

Right Option : A
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