Student Chemistry FAQ: Why Do More Reactive Metals…

Why Do More Reactive Metals Displace Less Reactive Metals From Solution?

A more reactive metal displaces a less reactive metal because it loses electrons more readily. These electrons are transferred to ions of the less reactive metal, converting them into neutral metal atoms.

The Electron-Transfer Mechanism

This is a redox reaction, meaning oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously. A metal's reactivity indicates its relative tendency to undergo oxidation, which is the loss of electrons.

For example, zinc is more reactive than copper. When zinc is placed in copper(II) sulfate solution, the overall ionic equation is:

\text{Zn}(s) + \text{Cu}^{2+}(aq) \rightarrow \text{Zn}^{2+}(aq) + \text{Cu}(s)

Why Do More Reactive Metals Displace Less Reactive Metals From Solution?

The Electron-Transfer Mechanism

This is a redox reaction, meaning oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously. A metal's reactivity indicates its relative tendency to undergo oxidation, which is the loss of electrons.

For example, zinc is more reactive than copper. When zinc is placed in copper(II) sulfate solution, the overall ionic equation is:

\text{Zn}(s) + \text{Cu}^{2+}(aq) \rightarrow \text{Zn}^{2+}(aq) + \text{Cu}(s)

Process	Half-equation
Oxidation of zinc	$\text{Zn}(s) \rightarrow \text{Zn}^{2+}(aq) + 2e^-$
Reduction of copper ions	$\text{Cu}^{2+}(aq) + 2e^- \rightarrow \text{Cu}(s)$

Why Do More Reactive Metals Displace Less Reactive Metals From Solution?

The Electron-Transfer Mechanism

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MYP Subjects

Why Do More Reactive Metals Displace Less Reactive Metals From Solution?

The Electron-Transfer Mechanism

IB Exam Technique

How Is the Periodic Table Organized (Periods; Groups; Blocks)?

How Do You Find an Element's Electron Configuration From Its Position in the Periodic Table?

What Are Alkali Metals, Halogens, Transition Elements, and Noble Gases?

What Are Periodicity and Periodic Trends?