Chemistry 0620 · Question 1[8 marks]
The reactivity series places metals in order of their tendency to form positive cations.
(a)[2]
Define metal reactivity in terms of ion formation and order Mg, Fe, Cu, and Ag by increasing tendency to form positive ions.
(b)[3]
An unknown metal M was investigated: • M reacts slowly with cold water. • M displaces zinc metal from aqueous zinc sulfate solution. • M is extracted by electrolysis, not by carbon reduction. Deduce the position of M in the reactivity series relative to magnesium and zinc, justifying your answer using the experimental evidence.
(c)[3]
Write the ionic equation for the displacement reaction between zinc metal and aqueous copper(II) sulfate. State which species is oxidised and which is reduced, giving a reason in terms of electron transfer.