Science · Class 10
Metals and Non-metals
Reactivity series, extraction of metals, and ionic compounds.
4 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
Metals are lustrous, malleable, ductile, and good conductors; non-metals are generally opposite. Study reactivity series, ionic bonding, extraction of metals, corrosion, and properties of ionic compounds.
Reactivity Series (partial)
- K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe > Pb > Cu > Ag > Au
- More reactive metal displaces less reactive from salt solution
- Highly reactive stored in kerosene (Na, K)
Ionic Compounds
- Formed by electron transfer (e.g. NaCl: Na⁺ + Cl⁻)
- High melting/boiling points; conduct electricity when molten or in solution
- Brittle solids; soluble in water often
Corrosion & Prevention
- Rusting: Fe + O₂ + H₂O → hydrated iron oxide
- Galvanisation: Zn coating
- Alloys: stainless steel, brass, bronze
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
Displacement
Can Cu displace Zn from ZnSO₄?
- 1Cu is below Zn in reactivity series
- 2Less reactive cannot displace more reactive
Answer
No reaction
Ionic bond
How does NaCl form?
- 1Na loses 1 e⁻ → Na⁺
- 2Cl gains 1 e⁻ → Cl⁻
- 3Electrostatic attraction
Answer
Electron transfer forms ionic bond
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ Graphite (non-metal) conducts electricity
- ✓ Iodine is lustrous non-metal
- ✓ Amphoteric oxides: Al₂O₃, ZnO react with acids and bases
Exam Tips
- • Memorise reactivity series for displacement
- • Explain ionic lattice structure
- • Know extraction of Al from bauxite (electrolysis)
Practice MCQs — Metals and Non-metals
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
Most reactive in list: