The reactivity series
The reactivity series
The reactivity series arranges metals from the most reactive at the top to the least reactive at the bottom. Reactivity describes how readily atoms lose electrons to form positive ions called cations.
Step-by-step lessons on Edexcel GCSE Chemistry 5.1 Obtaining and using metals, covering 5.1.1 The reactivity series of metals, 5.1.2 Displacement reactions as redox reactions, 5.1.3 Extracting metals from ores by reduction, 5.1.4 Biological methods of metal extraction, 5.1.5 Resistance to oxidation and recycling metals, and 5.1.6 Life cycle assessment. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Nail the core quantitative topics — moles, balancing equations and calculations — early on, since they underpin higher-tier questions across every paper and topic.