# A student investigates the reactivity of three metals — silver, aluminium and iron — by adding each one to a solution of copper(II) sulfate. Explain which metals will displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution, and describe what the student would observe when each of those metals is placed in the solution.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1) — 2.4 Reactivity series · Explain · 4 marks

> The reactivity series, in order from most reactive to least reactive, includes: aluminium, iron, copper, silver.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Silver does not displace copper because silver is less reactive than copper (accept: silver is below copper in the reactivity series)
2. Aluminium and iron displace copper because they are more reactive than copper (accept: they are above copper in the reactivity series)
3. A reddish-brown / pink solid (copper) forms / deposits on the surface of the aluminium or iron
4. The blue colour of the copper(II) sulfate solution fades / becomes less intense (accept: the solution becomes colourless)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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