Reactivity Series

Ordered list of metals by tendency to be oxidized. A metal higher in the series displaces one lower from its compound.

Reactivity series (most reactive top)
ReactivityMetalNotes
HighK, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, ZnReacts with cold water or steam
MediumFe, Sn, PbReacts with acids to give H₂
LowH (reference)Acid hydrogen
LowCu, Ag, AuDoes not displace H₂ from acids

Ordered by standard electrode potentials. See [Redox and Electrochemistry](/topics/redox-electrochemistry) and Nernst equation.

SOURCES

  1. [chang-gold]Chemistry (2022). McGraw Hillhttps://www.mheducation.com/

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