Reaction of Metals with Acids: Displacement and Hydrogen Evolution
When metals react with acids, they typically displace hydrogen from the acid to form a salt and release hydrogen gas. This is known as a single displacement reaction, and it depends heavily on the position of the metal in the reactivity series.
Theory for Class 10 Science
Only metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series can react with dilute acids like hydrochloric acid (HCl) or sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄).
General Reaction:
Metal + Acid → Salt + Hydrogen Gas
During the reaction:
- The metal loses electrons and becomes a cation.
- Hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the acid gain electrons and form hydrogen gas (H₂).
Example Reactions
- Magnesium + HCl:
Mg + 2HCl → MgCl₂ + H₂
- Aluminium + HCl:
2Al + 6HCl → 2AlCl₃ + 3H₂
- Iron + HCl:
Fe + 2HCl → FeCl₂ + H₂
- Copper + HCl:
Cu + HCl → No reaction
Copper lies below hydrogen in the reactivity series, so it does not react with dilute acids.
Real-Life Applications
- Hydrogen gas production in industries.
- Metal reactivity testing in laboratories.
- Educational demonstrations of chemical reactivity and gas evolution.
Observations from the Experiment
| Metal | Reaction Speed | Hydrogen Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Potassium (K) | Extremely vigorous (unsafe) | Yes |
| Magnesium (Mg) | Rapid, strong bubbling | Yes |
| Aluminium (Al) | Moderate bubbling | Yes |
| Iron (Fe) | Slow reaction, few bubbles | Yes |
| Copper (Cu) | No visible reaction | No |
Summary Table
| Metal | Reacts? | H₂ Gas? |
|---|---|---|
| Potassium (K) | Yes (vigorous) | Yes |
| Magnesium (Mg) | Yes (fast) | Yes |
| Aluminium (Al) | Yes (moderate) | Yes |
| Iron (Fe) | Yes (slow) | Yes |
| Copper (Cu) | No | No |
Explore Metal-Acid Reactions in Dencity
With the Dencity virtual lab, students can:
- Select different metals and acids.
- Watch hydrogen gas evolve with bubbles and sound effects.
- Compare reaction intensities across metals.
- Perform safe, interactive simulations of even dangerous reactions.
This is a key topic in Class 10 Science and is fully accessible on Android, iOS, and desktop through the Dencity app.
Dencity for Teachers
Dencity enhances interactive teaching by offering:
- Safe, realistic simulations of acid-metal reactions.
- Visual demonstrations of the reactivity series.
- Assignable lab tasks with auto-grading and analytics.
- Hands-on learning that builds conceptual clarity.
Interactive Panel Compatibility
Dencity works seamlessly on touch-enabled smart panels, letting students:
- Drag metals into acid-filled beakers,
- Observe reaction speeds,
- Hear “pop” sounds from hydrogen combustion.
Book a Demo or Get Custom Pricing
Take your chemistry lessons to the next level. Contact us now to schedule a free demo and receive custom pricing for your school.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do some metals not react with acid?
Because they are below hydrogen in the reactivity series. - What gas is produced in these reactions?
Hydrogen gas (H₂). - Which metals react most vigorously?
Potassium and sodium (though not safe to test in labs). - Is the Dencity app safe for these reactions?
Yes, it’s a virtual environment, ideal for hazardous experiments. - Is this experiment in Class 10 syllabus?
Yes, under the Metals and Non-metals chapter. - Can teachers assign this as homework?
Yes, with automatic grading and feedback. - Can I use this app on my phone or desktop?
Yes—supports Android, iOS, and desktop platforms. - Does Dencity show differences in reaction rates?
Yes, including visual and audible feedback. - Are real-life applications covered in the app?
Yes, including industrial and classroom examples. - How can my school start using Dencity?
Contact us to book a demo and explore integration options.
