If metal X is lower then metal Y in the activity series, then what would happen?

1 Answer
Aug 27, 2014

In order to determine whether a single replacement (displacement) reaction will occur, we look at the activity series for metals. If metal X will replace (displace) metal Y, then metal X must be above metal Y in the activity series for metals. If metal X is lower than metal Y, there will be no reaction.

For example, copper (Cu) is higher on the reactivity series than silver (Ag). Therefore, copper will replace (displace) silver in a single replacement (displacement) reaction.

Cu(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) 2Ag(s) + Cu(NO3)2(aq)

However, the reverse reaction will not take place because silver is below copper in the reactivity series.

Ag(s) + Cu(NO3)2(aq) no reaction

wps.prenhall.com