An acidic solution produces brisk bubbles with magnesium but not with silver. What does this observation show?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Metals have different reactivities
Many acids react with metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series and release hydrogen gas: metal + acid → salt + H₂. Magnesium is sufficiently reactive, so brisk bubbles appear, whereas silver is below hydrogen and normally does not displace it from a dilute non-oxidising acid. The observation therefore demonstrates different metal reactivities, making option A correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Metals have different reactivities
Why is this the correct answer?
Many acids react with metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series and release hydrogen gas: metal + acid → salt + H₂. Magnesium is sufficiently reactive, so brisk bubbles appear, whereas silver is below hydrogen and normally does not displace it from a dilute non-oxidising acid. The observation therefore demonstrates different metal reactivities, making option A correct.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
