Activity Series Calculator

The Activity Series Calculator predicts whether a single-displacement reaction will occur when a metal is placed into a solution containing another metal's ions — a core concept in chemistry where more reactive metals "displace" less reactive ones. Select a Metal (Reactant) and a Metal Ion (in Solution) to get a Reaction Prediction, along with each metal's Activity Rank and the Balanced Equation for the reaction.

Select the metal that will potentially lose electrons

Select the metal ion that will potentially gain electrons

Results

Reaction Prediction

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Metal Activity Rank

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Ion Metal Activity Rank

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Balanced Equation

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Results Table

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the activity series and how does it work?

The activity series is a list of metals arranged in order of decreasing reactivity or ease of oxidation. Metals higher in the series can displace metals lower in the series from their compounds in solution.

How do I predict if a displacement reaction will occur?

A displacement reaction occurs when a more reactive metal (higher in the activity series) is placed with a less reactive metal ion (lower in the series). The more reactive metal will lose electrons and displace the less reactive metal.

Why are gold, silver, and platinum called precious metals?

These metals are at the bottom of the activity series, meaning they are very unreactive and resist oxidation. This makes them durable and valuable for jewelry and industrial applications.

What happens when metals react with acids?

Metals above hydrogen in the activity series will react with acids to produce hydrogen gas and a metal salt. Metals below hydrogen (like copper, silver, gold) will not react with most acids.

Can a less reactive metal displace a more reactive metal ion?

No, displacement reactions only occur when a more reactive metal encounters a less reactive metal ion. The reverse reaction is not thermodynamically favorable.

What is the significance of hydrogen in the activity series?

Hydrogen serves as a reference point. Metals above hydrogen can displace hydrogen from acids, while metals below hydrogen cannot react with acids to produce hydrogen gas.