Acids and metals
When an acid reacts with a metal, hydrogen gas and a salt are produced. A salt is an ionic
compound containing the ions left over after reaction. The general reaction can be written as:
acid + metal  hydrogen + salt
An example is:
Hydrochloric + magnesium  magnesium + hydrogen
acid
chloride
2HCl(aq) + Mg(s)  MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Note that a subscript ‘(g)’ is used to show a gas.
Hydrogen can be tested for using the ‘pop’ test. A lit match is placed in the test tube. If
hydrogen is present it will undergo rapid combustion, making a ‘popping’ sound as it ignites.
Experiment: Acids and metals
Aim: To identify and describe the reactants and products in reactions
between acids and metals.
Hypothesis: If an acid and metal are combined then the products will be
________________
Equipment:
 Hydrochloric acid
 Test tubes
 Test tube rack
 Matches
 Magnesium
 Copper
Method:
1. Add 2cm depth of the acid to a test tube, drop a small piece of
magnesium metal into the test tube and close with the plug. Observe
what happens.
2. Open the test tube plug partially and hold a lit splint over the opening.
3. Repeat with copper metal.
Results:
Name and formula of Acid
Name and symbol of Metal Observation
Hydrochloric Acid
Copper
Hydrochloric Acid
Magnesium
Discussion:
1. Write word equations for each of the reactions between the acids and
metals.
2. Write chemical equations for each of the reactions between the acids
and metals