Question detail
Which of the following metals is likely to react with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Reactions of acids
Question
- A. Copper
- B. Zinc
- C. Gold
- D. Silver
Answer
Zinc
Explanation
Zinc is more reactive than hydrogen and can displace hydrogen ions from hydrochloric acid, leading to a reaction.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding reactivity series relevance
Students think all metals will react with dilute acids, ignoring the reactivity series and the fact that metals below hydrogen (e.g., zinc, iron) may not react readily with dilute acids.
Explain that only metals higher than hydrogen in the reactivity series (e.g., magnesium, zinc, iron) will displace hydrogen from dilute acids; metals below hydrogen (e.g., copper, silver) do not react with dilute acids because they are less reactive.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.