Neither strontium (Sr) nor antimony (Sb) is shown in the activity series of Table 4.5. Based on their positions in the periodic table, which would you expect to be the better reducing agent? Will the following reaction occur? Explain.
Ch.4 - Reactions in Aqueous Solution
Chapter 4, Problem 120d
Use the activity series of metals (Table 4.5) to predict the outcome of each of the following reactions. If no reaction occurs, write NR. (d)
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the metals and their ions involved in the reaction from the problem statement.
Refer to the activity series of metals to determine the reactivity order of the metals involved.
Compare the reactivity of the metal in its elemental form with the metal in its ionic form. A more reactive metal will displace a less reactive metal from its compound.
If the metal in its elemental form is higher in the activity series than the metal in its ionic form, a reaction will occur resulting in the displacement of the less reactive metal.
If the metal in its elemental form is lower in the activity series than the metal in its ionic form, no reaction occurs, and you should write 'NR' (No Reaction).

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Activity Series of Metals
The activity series of metals is a list that ranks metals based on their reactivity, with the most reactive metals at the top and the least reactive at the bottom. This series helps predict whether a metal will displace another metal in a chemical reaction. For example, a metal higher in the series can displace a metal lower in the series from its compound, while no reaction occurs if the reverse is attempted.
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Activity Series Chart
Single Replacement Reactions
Single replacement reactions occur when one element replaces another in a compound. In the context of the activity series, this type of reaction can be predicted by comparing the reactivity of the metals involved. If the free metal is more reactive than the metal in the compound, a reaction will occur; otherwise, no reaction (NR) will take place.
Predicting Chemical Reactions
Predicting chemical reactions involves using established rules and series, such as the activity series, to determine the outcomes of reactions. In this case, understanding the relative reactivity of metals allows chemists to foresee whether a reaction will occur or if the reactants will remain unchanged. This predictive ability is crucial for planning experiments and understanding chemical behavior.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
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Textbook Question
Which element is oxidized and which is reduced in each of the following reactions? (b)
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Textbook Question
Use the activity series of metals (Table 4.5) to predict the outcome of each of the following reactions. If no reaction occurs, write NR. (a)
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Textbook Question
Use the activity series of metals (Table 4.5) to predict the outcome of each of the following reactions. If no reaction occurs, write NR. (b)
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Textbook Question
(a) Use the following reactions to arrange the elements A, B, C, and D in order of their decreasing ability as reducing agents:
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Textbook Question
(b) Which of the following reactions would you expect to occur according to the activity series you established in part (a)?
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