Question

Why does Al appear less reactive than its position in the reactivity series?

A. Because Al is highly reactive with water.
B. Because Al forms a protective oxide layer that prevents further reactions.
C. Because Al is a noble gas.
D. Because Al has a high atomic number.

Answer 1

Aluminum appears less reactive than its position in the reactivity series due to the formation of a protective oxide layer that prevents further reactions, a process known as passivation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason why aluminum (Al) appears less reactive than its position in the reactivity series would suggest is B. Because Al forms a protective oxide layer that prevents further reactions. When aluminum is exposed to the environment, it reacts with oxygen in the air to form a thin, durable layer of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). This layer adheres to the metal's surface and acts as a barrier, protecting the underlying aluminum from further reaction with oxygen, water, and other substances that might corrode it. This phenomenon is known as passivation and is responsible for aluminum's excellent corrosion resistance despite its high reactivity based on its position in the reactivity series.