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Metals and the Reactivity Series

3 dot points across 3 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

Why is the method used to extract a metal decided by its position in the reactivity series?

Relate the method of extracting a metal to its position in the reactivity series, describe the extraction of iron in the blast furnace, and explain reduction by carbon and by electrolysis
A focused answer to the O-Level Chemistry outcome on metal extraction. Why reactivity decides the extraction method, the reduction of iron oxide by carbon in the blast furnace, and why very reactive metals need electrolysis.
9 min answer →

What conditions cause iron to rust, and how can rusting be prevented?

Describe the conditions needed for iron to rust, explain methods of rust prevention including sacrificial protection, and relate the properties of steel and alloys to their uses
A focused answer to the O-Level Chemistry outcome on rusting and steel. The conditions needed for iron to rust, methods of prevention including barriers and sacrificial protection, and how steel and other alloys are matched to their uses.
8 min answer →

How is the reactivity series built from the reactions of metals, and how does it predict displacement?

Place metals in order of reactivity using their reactions with oxygen, water and acids, and use the reactivity series to predict displacement reactions of metals from their compounds
A focused answer to the O-Level Chemistry outcome on the reactivity series. Ordering metals from their reactions with oxygen, water and acid, and using the series to predict metal displacement reactions.
9 min answer →