The reactivity series shows the list of metals starting with the most reactive at the top and the least reactive at the bottom.

A simple form of it is shown here:

sodium

magnesium

iron

copper

gold

We can add in other metals but this is good enough for now. We can also add in some non-metals (hydrogen goes between iron and copper; carbon goes between magnesium and iron).

The Reactivity Series helps us to predict the outcome of some reactions.

Think of the imaginary element Blobbium.

Does this reaction proceed? blobbium + iron oxide gives blobbium oxide + iron (A)

It looks OK but what about this one? blobbium oxide + iron gives blobbium + iron oxide (B)

Both COULD be OK but which one really happens?

You cannot tell until you know the position of blobbium in the reactivity series.

If you are told that Blobbium is above iron in the reactivity series, then A is right.

If you are told that Blobbium is below iron in the reactivity series, then B is right.

Think of it like the football league tables. The top team always beats the lower teams (there are no shock results!). Winning is represented by having the oxide.

Try these. Decide if the reaction will proceed. If it does, predict the products. Scroll down for the answers, but you must decide for yourself first!

1. sodium oxide + magnesium

2. magnesium + iron oxide

3. copper oxide + gold

4. gold oxide + iron

Watch the video clip "Molten Metals" but watch out for the errors! Just because it is on TV doesn't mean it is correct. Mistake number 1 is that they use = instead of an arrow for the chemical equation. That would cost a mark at GCSE. Mistake number two is that they link melting point and reactivity. You wouldn't do that, would you?