Which general equation describes the reaction of a metal with an acid?

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which general equation describes the reaction of a metal with an acid?

Explanation:
When a metal reacts with an acid, the products are a salt and hydrogen gas. The general equation is metal + acid → salt + hydrogen. The option that lists the products as “Salt + hydrogen” matches what is formed in this reaction, since the acid provides hydrogen that is released as H2 while the metal forms a salt with the remaining anion of the acid (for example, Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2). The other options describe different processes: hydrogen gas with the metal would imply an unusual reverse scenario, metal oxide + water is a reaction of metal with water or oxygen, and salt + water comes from neutralization with a base, not a metal reacting with an acid.

When a metal reacts with an acid, the products are a salt and hydrogen gas. The general equation is metal + acid → salt + hydrogen. The option that lists the products as “Salt + hydrogen” matches what is formed in this reaction, since the acid provides hydrogen that is released as H2 while the metal forms a salt with the remaining anion of the acid (for example, Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2). The other options describe different processes: hydrogen gas with the metal would imply an unusual reverse scenario, metal oxide + water is a reaction of metal with water or oxygen, and salt + water comes from neutralization with a base, not a metal reacting with an acid.

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