Question

What is an example of a metal activity series practice problem?

Answer 1

Here is a common question with single replacement reactions:

Explanation:

Given: `Zn(s)+H2SO4(aq)→ZnSO4(aq)+H2(g)`

`color(purple)("Can this reaction take place?")`

Well, let's see:

In this equation, we need to see if `Zn` can replace `H_"2"`.
If an element is `color(purple)("higher")` on Table J than the element it is attempting to replace, then the reaction can happen.

So, is Zn higher than H?
`color(blue)("Yes!")`

Therefore, this reaction can happen.

Another question may ask something like:
Which element can NOT replace `H_"2"`?

The answer has to be something lower on the table (less active) than Hydrogen. The only viable answers are `Cu, Ag, Au`.

Hope this helps!