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2023 O Level Chem P1 Q32 — Reactivity Series Solution

Reactivity Series 2023 O Level Pure Chemistry · Paper 1 · Q32

Question

G is a metal. It occurs naturally as an element and sometimes in ores containing its oxide. G forms chloride GCl. No other chloride of G exists. A student makes some statements about metal G. 1 It can be displaced from solutions containing its ions according to the equation shown. 3G⁺(aq) + Fe(s) → Fe³⁺(aq) + 3G(s). 2 It can be extracted from its ore by electrolysis. 3 It can be extracted from its ore by reduction with carbon. 4 It is likely to be found as an ore containing the compound G₂O₃. Which statements are correct?

A1, 2 and 3
B1 and 3 only
C2 and 4
D3 and 4

Correct answer: A

Video Solution

Explanation

Answer: A. The clues fix G's place in the reactivity series and its stable ion: G occurs naturally as an element (so G is unreactive — below Cu in the reactivity series, like Ag/Au); G forms only GCl (so G's only stable ion is G⁺, charge +1).

(1) The equation \(3\text{G}^+\text{(aq)} + \text{Fe(s)} \rightarrow \text{Fe}^{3+}\text{(aq)} + 3\text{G(s)}\) shows Fe displacing G — correct direction because Fe is more reactive than G. ✓
(2) Electrolysis of the molten ore can extract G (any ionic compound can be electrolysed once molten). It isn't the usual industrial choice for unreactive metals like G, but the statement only claims it 'can be' done, not that it's the standard or most economical method. ✓
(3) Carbon reduction works for metals below carbon in the reactivity series (Zn, Fe, Pb, Cu and the unreactive ones). G fits, and the stem says G is found 'in ores containing its oxide'. ✓
(4) G₂O₃ implies G³⁺. But G only forms G⁺, so the only possible oxide is G₂O, not G₂O₃. ✗

So statements 1, 2 and 3 are all correct — option A.

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