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Science at key stage 3    (Year 9)

Unit 9F: Patterns of reactivity
Section 9: How can we find out more about the reaction of metals with acids?

QCA

Objectives
Children should learn:
  • to decide which observations or measurements are appropriate
  • to identify variables that need to be controlled and decide how to do this
  • to choose axes and scales for graphs
  • to decide whether results that do not fit the pattern expected arise from experimental shortcomings or are significant
  • to explain results in the light of scientific knowledge and understanding

Activities

Outcomes
Children:
  • Review what pupils remember about the reactions of acids with metals and remind them of how they compared their reactivity. Explain that they are going to investigate more systematically the differences in reactivity of zinc, magnesium and aluminium with hydrochloric acid. Discuss the indicators, eg changes in temperature, amount of gas produced, that might be measured and which variables they will need to control. Help pupils plan and carry out their investigations safely and, where appropriate, present their results as graphs. Ask pupils to tell the story of what the graphs show and to explain whether the results are what they expected from the relative positions of the metals in the reactivity series. Remind them of earlier work on the extraction of aluminium. Discuss with pupils the key points in this investigation and help them to write an account that brings these out clearly.
  • identify a workable procedure, eg to measure the temperature of the reacting mixture every minute for 10 minutes
  • identify variables that need to be controlled, eg quantity of metal, volume of acid
  • present results clearly and appropriately
  • explain the results obtained in the light of the reactivity series and knowledge about aluminium

Points to note
  • If pupils devise their own methods for this investigation, they may choose measures that compare the rates of the reactions rather than the reactivity of the metals. Some teachers may wish to discuss this with some pupils.

    • Safety

    • 0.4 mol dm-3 acid and coarse-mesh filings of the metal can be used. Eye protection should be worn. Coarse-mesh magnesium and aluminium are highly flammable. Supervise this investigation closely
    • pupils' plans should be checked for health and safety before practical work begins

Sections in this unit

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This unit is divided into sections. Each section contains a sequence of activities with related objectives and outcomes. You can view this unit by moving through the sections or print/download the whole unit.
1. Why do metals tarnish?
2. How do metals react with water?
3. Is the order of reactivity of metals with water the same as that with acids?
4. Can we make predictions about the reactions of metals with oxygen?
5. a. Can metals displace each other?
6. b. Can metals displace each other?
7. Checking progress
8. How does the activity series relate to uses and sources of metals?
9. How can we find out more about the reaction of metals with acids?
10. Reviewing work