The reactivity series and metal extraction
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Explainer Video
Summary
The reactivity series and metal extraction
In a nutshell
The reactivity series is a list of metals in order of their reactivity. You need to know the reactivity series. Some of these metals can be extracted using carbon.
Reactivity series
You need to know the list below, bearing in mind that hydrogen and carbon are non-metals. They have been included so you can compare them to other metals and see where they stand in the list.
Extracting some metals
Metals are usually extracted from ores because metals are not always pure. Some metals can be extracted using carbon via reduction, which is the removal of oxygen.
Only metals which are below carbon in the reactivity series (see above) can be extracted using carbon. Electricity is required to extract metals from their ores which are found above carbon in the list.
Example
Iron from an iron ore can be extracted using carbon because it is below carbon in the reactivity series.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reactivity series?
The reactivity series is a list of metals in order of their reactivity.
How can metals above carbon in the reactivity series be extracted?
Metals above carbon in the reactivity series be extracted using electricity.
Which metals can be extracted using carbon?
Only metals which are below carbon in the reactivity series can be extracted using carbon.