大象传媒

The reactivity of metalsThe reactivity series

The reactivity series lists metals from the most reactive to the least reactive. A metal can displace a less reactive metal from its compounds. This is useful for extracting metals from their oxides.

Part of ScienceChemical changes

The reactivity series

Magnesium is very reactive. It ignites when heated and burns with a brilliant white flame

Different metals have different levels of reactivity. Some take part in chemical reactions more easily than others.

Some metals are very . They easily take part in chemical reactions to make new substances.

For example, when a sample of sodium is cut, it initially appears shiny grey but quickly becomes dull and white as it reacts with oxygen in the air.

Some metals are very . This means they do not easily take part in chemical reactions. For example, gold and platinum do not react with oxygen in the air, even if they are heated in a Bunsen burner flame.

If we put the metals in order of their reactivity, from the most reactive down to the least reactive, we get a list called the .

Lists from most reactive to least reactive: potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, iron, tin, lead, copper, silver, gold, platinum
The reactivity series for some common metals

Metals can react with water, acid and oxygen. The reactivity of the metal determines which reactions the metal participates in.

Next page
Reactions of metals with water

More guides on this topic