Question

How do different metals displace hydrogen from water? Explain with the help of equations.

Answer 1

Almost all metals react with water but with different intensities.

1. Sodium and potassium react violently with cold water to an extent that hydrogen gas so produced catches fire.

`""2K+ 2H_2O→  2KOH + H_2↑  `

`""2Na + 2H_2O → 2NaOH  +  H_2   ↑`

1. Calcium reacts less violently with water.
   Ca + 2H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + H₂ ↑
2. Magnesium reacts with hot water to form magnesium oxide and hydrogen.
   Mg + H₂O → MgO + H₂ ↑
3. Metals like aluminium zinc and iron reacts only with steam.

`""2HI +3H_2O→ ZnO + H_2 ↑ `   

   1 .Metals like gold, silver and copper do            not react with water.