Reactivity of metals

O/L Science · G.C.E. Ordinary Level · Grades 10–11

Aim

To find the order of reactivity of some metals.

Apparatus

• Strips of Mg, Al, Zn, Fe, Cu
• Dilute HCl and CuSO₄ solution
• Test tubes and water

Method

1. Put each metal in dilute HCl and watch the bubbling.
2. Try them with cold water and steam too.
3. Place them in CuSO₄ solution and look for copper deposits.
4. Arrange the metals in order of reactivity.

Conclusion

Order of reactivity: Mg > Al > Zn > Fe > Cu. A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal from its salt solution.