Why does copper generally not produce hydrogen gas with dilute hydrochloric acid?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because copper is less reactive than hydrogen
The governing concept is the reactivity series. A metal can displace hydrogen from a dilute non-oxidising acid only when it is more reactive than hydrogen. Copper lies below hydrogen in the series, so it cannot normally reduce hydrogen ions from dilute hydrochloric acid to H₂. Option B is false because copper does not simply dissolve in water; option C misidentifies HCl, and option D is an unjustified absolute statement. Hence A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Because copper is less reactive than hydrogen
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is the reactivity series. A metal can displace hydrogen from a dilute non-oxidising acid only when it is more reactive than hydrogen. Copper lies below hydrogen in the series, so it cannot normally reduce hydrogen ions from dilute hydrochloric acid to H₂. Option B is false because copper does not simply dissolve in water; option C misidentifies HCl, and option D is an unjustified absolute statement. Hence A is 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.
