Test: Chemical Reactivities and Uses of Metals - JAMB MCQ

Sodium reacts most vigorously with water among the given options. It displaces hydrogen from water, forming sodium hydroxide and releasing hydrogen gas. This reaction is highly exothermic and results in the production of hydrogen bubbles and a hissing sound.

Silver does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid. Unlike other metals, silver is relatively unreactive and does not readily react with acids. This property makes silver suitable for various applications in jewelry, coins, and decorative items.

Zinc displaces hydrogen from dilute acids but not from water. When zinc reacts with dilute acids, such as hydrochloric acid, it undergoes a redox reaction, releasing hydrogen gas and forming zinc chloride. However, zinc does not react with water unless it is in the presence of an oxidizing agent.

Iron is most likely to react with sulfuric acid to produce hydrogen gas. When iron reacts with sulfuric acid, iron(II) sulfate is formed along with the evolution of hydrogen gas. This reaction is commonly used in the laboratory to produce hydrogen gas.

Aluminum is used in the production of electrical wires due to its high conductivity. Aluminum has excellent electrical conductivity and is relatively lightweight, making it a suitable choice for transmitting electricity over long distances.

Zinc is commonly used for galvanizing iron to prevent rusting. Galvanization involves coating iron or steel with a layer of zinc. Zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, corroding in place of the iron, and protecting it from oxidation and rusting.

Aluminum is used in the construction of aircraft and space shuttles due to its lightweight and strength. Aluminum exhibits a favorable strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for aerospace applications where weight reduction is crucial.

Mercury is used in the production of batteries and electrical contacts. It is commonly used in certain types of batteries, such as mercury batteries and button cells, due to its unique electrochemical properties. Mercury is also used in some electrical switches and relays.

Silver is commonly used in the manufacture of coins and jewelry. Silver has been valued for its aesthetic appeal and durability for centuries. It is malleable, ductile, and has excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making it suitable for crafting coins and various forms of jewelry.

Zinc can displace copper from a copper sulfate solution. This displacement reaction occurs because zinc is more reactive than copper in the reactivity series of metals. Zinc reacts with copper sulfate, producing zinc sulfate and displacing copper, which precipitates as a solid.