Metals (C9.2) Reactivity Series & Corrosion of Metals Quiz

What is the general equation for a metal reacting with an acid?

• metal + salt → acid + hydrogen

• metal + acid → hydrogen + oxygen

• metal + water → salt + oxygen

• metal + acid → salt + hydrogen

Answer explanation

The correct equation for a metal reacting with an acid is 'metal + acid → salt + hydrogen'. This reaction produces a salt and hydrogen gas, which is a characteristic of acid-metal reactions.

True or False? Only metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series will react with dilute acids.

• Sometimes

• False

• Depends on the metal

• True

Answer explanation

True. Only metals that are more reactive than hydrogen can displace hydrogen from dilute acids, leading to a reaction. Therefore, only metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series will react with dilute acids.

Define the term salt.

• A metal that reacts with water

• An ionic compound produced when a metal reacts with an acid

• A type of acid

• A base that dissolves in water

Answer explanation

Salt is defined as an ionic compound formed when a metal reacts with an acid, resulting in the neutralization of the acid and the formation of a salt and water.

What is the balanced symbol equation for the reaction of calcium with water?

• Ca + H2O → CaO + H2

• Ca + 2H2 → Ca(OH)2

• Ca + 2H2O → Ca(OH)2 + H2

• Ca + H2O → Ca(OH)2 + H2

Answer explanation

The correct equation is Ca + 2H2O → Ca(OH)2 + H2, as calcium reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The other options do not accurately represent this reaction.

True or False? Copper is more reactive than hydrogen.

• True

• False

• Depends on the temperature

• Only in certain conditions

Answer explanation

False. Copper is less reactive than hydrogen. In the reactivity series, hydrogen is above copper, indicating that copper cannot displace hydrogen from its compounds.

Which metal is more reactive; zinc or iron?

• Neither reacts

• Zinc

• Iron

• Both are equally reactive

Answer explanation

Zinc is more reactive than iron, which is evident in their positions in the reactivity series. Zinc readily reacts with acids and moisture, while iron is less reactive under similar conditions.

What mnemonic can be used to remember the reactivity series?

• Alligators can swim in cold water

• Zebras are fast runners in the jungle

• My cat likes to eat fish and chips

• Please send lions, cats, monkeys and cute zebras into hot countries signed Gordon

Answer explanation

The correct mnemonic, "Please send lions, cats, monkeys and cute zebras into hot countries signed Gordon," corresponds to the reactivity series, helping to remember the order of metals based on their reactivity.

What is rust?

• A protective layer on metals

• A type of acid

• Hydrated iron(III) oxide that forms on iron when it corrodes

• A type of metal

Answer explanation

Rust is specifically hydrated iron(III) oxide, which forms when iron undergoes corrosion due to moisture and oxygen. This distinguishes it from other options, making it the correct answer.

Which element does rusting specifically refer to?

• Aluminium

• Iron

• Copper

• Zinc

Answer explanation

Rusting specifically refers to the corrosion of iron when it reacts with oxygen and moisture, forming iron oxide. This process does not apply to aluminium, copper, or zinc in the same way, making iron the correct choice.

Give two conditions needed for rusting of iron to occur.

• Water and oxygen

• Heat and pressure

• Cold and dry conditions

• Salt and air

Answer explanation

Rusting of iron requires both water and oxygen. Water acts as an electrolyte, while oxygen is necessary for the oxidation process. Without these two conditions, rusting cannot occur.