Question

Which of the following series of metals is cor- rectly ranked in order of increasing activity?

1. Au < Zn < Na < Li
2. Li < Na < Zn < Au
3. Au < Na < Li < Zn
4. Au < Zn < Li < Na
5. Na < Li < Zn < Au

Answer 1

The correct ranking of metals in order of increasing activity is Au < Zn < Na < Li, following the trend from less reactive precious metals to highly reactive alkali metals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks about the correct ranking of metals in order of increasing activity, based on their tendency to be oxidized, which is the essence of the activity series. According to the activity series, alkali metals and alkaline earth metals (group 1 and 2) are at the top due to their high reactivity, and precious metals like gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) are at the bottom due to their low reactivity. In this case, the correct ranking is Au < Zn < Na < Li.

Gold is a precious metal and is less reactive, while lithium (Li) is an alkali metal and is highly reactive. The order reflects that metals increase in reactivity as you go from the coinage metals towards the alkali metals on the periodic table.