Displacement Reactions

DO NOW TASK

We have discussed previously how we can separate components of mixtures.

What different methods can we use to break apart compounds and extract some of its component parts?

Displacement Reactions

Learning objectives

- Represent and explain displacement reactions using equations and particle diagrams.

- Make inferences about reactivity from displacement reactions.

Keywords

displacement reaction

reactivity series

Example 1

Adding an iron nail to is added to a blue copper sulfate solution

• Iron is more reactive than copper.

• A chemical change occurs.

• Iron atoms displace the copper atoms, bonding with the sulfate to make iron sulfate, which is a pale green solution.

• Reddy-brown Copper atoms form on the outside of the iron nail and some collect on the bottom of the beaker. 

• iron + copper sulfate => copper + iron sulfate

Open Ended

From your experience of the experiments we have done in the lab, what might you notice that might make you think a chemical reaction had taken place? write a short answer below

Open Ended

The reaction of Iron (Fe) and a copper sulfate solution takes a week to happen. When magnesium (Mg) is added to a solution of copper sulfate, the solution changes from blue to colourless much faster than with iron. Which is more reactive, magnesium or iron? If both reactions happened quickly, what other signs might you see that indicated Mg was more reactive than Fe? write a short answer below

Testing Reactivity

If we test lots of different elements in the same way, we can build up what we call a REACTIVITY SERIES.

The Reactivity Series

• The further substances are from each other in the series, the more vigorous the displacement reaction will be.

• Mainly lists metals, but non-metals carbon and hydrogen are often included because they can be used to extract metals that come below them in the series.