Reaction of Acids with Metals

General Reaction Equation

• Acid + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen
• This equation describes the reaction of acids with metals.

Examples of Word Equations

1. Hydrochloric Acid + Sodium → Sodium Chloride + Hydrogen Gas
2. Sulfuric Acid + Calcium → Calcium Sulfate + Hydrogen Gas
3. Nitric Acid + Potassium → Potassium Nitrate + Hydrogen Gas

Characteristics of the Reaction

• Hydrogen Gas Production: In each reaction, hydrogen gas is produced.
• Salt Formation:
  • The salt's name starts with the metal used.
  • The ending of the salt's name depends on the acid:
    • Hydrochloric Acid → Chloride
    • Sulfuric Acid → Sulfate
    • Nitric Acid → Nitrate
• Observable Reaction:
  • Fizzing and bubbles indicate hydrogen gas release.
  • More reactive metals produce a more vigorous reaction with faster bubble production.

Reactivity of Metals

• Order of Reactivity (from most to least reactive):
  1. Magnesium
  2. Zinc
  3. Iron
  4. Lead
• Non-reactive Metals:
  • Copper, silver, and gold do not react with dilute acids and are not typically observed in school experiments.

Test for Hydrogen Gas

• Collection: Place a boiling tube over the test tube to collect the gas.
• Confirmation: Insert a lit splint into the boiling tube. A "squeaky pop" sound confirms the presence of hydrogen.

Additional Resources

• Subscribe for More Videos: Click on the screen to subscribe.
• Find Videos: All videos available at [gcse revisionmonkey.com](http://gcse revisionmonkey.com).
• Teacher Resources: Check out the Key Stage 3 package at sciencesurgery.com, including all revision videos and more resources.