I have to write a balanced equation for the reaction of a solid lead being added to a solution of silver nitrate. Solid silver forms and the lead disappears as it goes into the solution as lead (ii) nitrate.

I think it should be
Pb + AgNO3 >>>> Ag + Pb(NO3)2

does this mean that silver is the more active metal? I think that silver is the more active metal if I am wrong could you please explain to me why it is not.

1 answer

See your post above. Pb is above Ag in the table; therefore, Pb is the more active metal and it will displace Ag^+ from solution.