The most strongly reducing elements are listed at the top of the partial activity series table provided. Use the activity series to predict which reaction will occur. (LO 4.20) (a) (b) (c) (d)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements involved in the reactions and their positions in the activity series.
2. Recall that elements higher in the activity series are stronger reducing agents and will more readily lose electrons.
3. Compare the elements in each reaction to determine which one is higher in the activity series.
4. Predict that the reaction involving the element higher in the activity series will occur.
5. Select the reaction where the reducing agent is the strongest based on the activity series.

Key Concepts

Activity Series

The activity series is a list of metals and hydrogen arranged in order of decreasing reactivity. It helps predict the outcomes of displacement reactions, where a more reactive element can displace a less reactive element from a compound. The higher an element is on the series, the stronger its ability to act as a reducing agent.

Reducing Agents

A reducing agent is a substance that donates electrons in a chemical reaction, causing another substance to be reduced. In the context of the activity series, the most strongly reducing elements are those that readily lose electrons, facilitating reactions with other elements or compounds. Understanding which elements are strong reducing agents is crucial for predicting reaction outcomes.

Half-Reactions

Half-reactions are the individual oxidation or reduction processes that occur in a redox reaction. They show the transfer of electrons explicitly, allowing for a clearer understanding of how reactants interact. In the context of the activity series, analyzing half-reactions helps identify which elements will oxidize or reduce, aiding in predicting the overall reaction.