Experiment to see how the reactivity of a metal affects the temperature rise of a reaction.

Reactivity And Displacement Reactions


Metals have different levels of reactivity.


A more reactive metal can displace a less reactive metal in a compound.


e.g. Magnesium + Copper Chloride --> Magnesium Chloride + Copper


Displacement reactions are exothermic (this means they give out heat).


We can do an experiment to test how the reactivity of the metal used affects the amount of heat given out.


Hypothesis: The temperature rise when a metal reacts with a solution of Copper Chloride varies with the reactivity of the metal.

Equipment
Copper chloride solution (0.2M)
Magnesium, Aluminium, Zinc, Iron and Copper powders.
25ml measuring cylinder

Thermometer
Polystyrene (plastic) cup
Beaker to hold the plastic cup
Spatula
Weighing Boat
Balance
Stop Clock


Method
1 Use the measuring cylinder to measure 25ml of copper chloride solution into the

plastic cup, which should then be stood in the beaker.
2 Measure and record the initial temperature of the copper chloride solution.

3 Weigh out 0.5 g of one of the metals.

4 Add the metal to the copper chloride solution, stir with the thermometer.

5 Continue stirring and checking the temperature. After 2 minutes record the highest temperature it reached..

6 Wash out the plastic cup and repeat for each metal.
Risk Assessment
Hazard: Metal Powders
Risk: They are highly flammable and may cause burns if set on fire.
Control Measure: Ensure no flames are used.


Hazard: Metal Powders
Risk: If get in eyes will cause irritation
Control Measure: Wear goggles.