Understanding the Reactivity SeriesThe reactivity series is a list of metals arranged in order of their ability to displace other elements from compounds. When it comes to acids, metals that are higher in the reactivity series can displace hydrogen from acids, while those lower in the series cannot.
Why Zinc Displaces HydrogenAmong the options given, zinc is the only metal that can effectively displace hydrogen from an acid. Here’s why:
- Position in Reactivity Series: Zinc is placed above hydrogen in the reactivity series, indicating that it is more reactive than hydrogen. This means zinc can easily lose electrons and react with hydrogen ions in the acid.
- Chemical Reaction: When zinc reacts with an acid, it produces hydrogen gas and a salt. The reaction can be represented as:
Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2↑
- Comparison with Other Metals:
- Gold: Gold is very low in the reactivity series and does not react with acids to displace hydrogen.
- Silver: Silver is also below hydrogen; hence, it cannot displace hydrogen from acids.
- Copper: Copper is less reactive than hydrogen, so it cannot displace it either.
ConclusionIn summary, zinc's position in the reactivity series makes it the most likely metal from the options given to displace hydrogen from an acid. This property is essential for various chemical reactions in laboratories and industrial applications.