Based on the activity series, which of the following metals is the easiest to oxidize?

• A. Ag (silver)
• B. Cu (copper)
• C. Au (gold)
• D. K (potassium)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the activity series is a list of metals ranked by their tendency to lose electrons (oxidize). Metals higher in the series oxidize more easily than those lower down.
2. Identify the metals given in the problem: Ag (silver), Cu (copper), Au (gold), and K (potassium). Note that K (potassium) is mentioned as the correct answer but was not listed initially.
3. Recall that alkali metals like potassium (K) are very reactive and easily lose electrons, placing them high on the activity series, while metals like Au (gold), Ag (silver), and Cu (copper) are much less reactive and lower on the series.
4. Compare the positions of these metals on the activity series: K is near the top (most easily oxidized), followed by Cu, Ag, and Au near the bottom (least easily oxidized).
5. Conclude that potassium (K) is the easiest to oxidize among the metals listed because it is highest on the activity series, meaning it loses electrons most readily.