Remember that in chemistry, we can write any equation, but that doesn't mean a reaction will occur. We can use the activity series, like the image seen here, to predict potential reactivity based on the properties of the elements. The activity series is based on single replacement reactions. Rule: an element placed higher on the table CAN replace any element below itself, but NONE above it. Study the activity series then try your hand at predicting whether or not each possible replacement can occur. Example: Zinc CAN replace Bismuth. Zinc CANNOT replace Calcium.

Question

Yes No
Can Lithium replace Chromium?

Can Bismuth replace Zinc?

Can Nickel replace Cadmium?

Can Potassium replace Manganese?

Answer 1

To answer your questions based on the activity series, we will apply the rule that an element placed higher on the series can replace any element below it, but none above it.

1. Can Lithium replace Chromium?

   • Yes. Lithium is higher than Chromium in the activity series.

2. Can Bismuth replace Zinc?

   • No. Bismuth is lower than Zinc in the activity series.

3. Can Nickel replace Cadmium?

   • No. Nickel is lower than Cadmium in the activity series.

4. Can Potassium replace Manganese?

   • Yes. Potassium is higher than Manganese in the activity series.

Thus, the answers are:

• Can Lithium replace Chromium? Yes
• Can Bismuth replace Zinc? No
• Can Nickel replace Cadmium? No
• Can Potassium replace Manganese? Yes