Question

Why does magnesium react most vigorously with hydrochloric acid?

Answer 1

Magnesium reacts most vigorously with hydrochloric acid because it is a highly reactive metal. It undergoes a single replacement reaction, forming magnesium chloride and hydrogen gas as byproducts.

Step-by-step explanation:

Magnesium reacts most vigorously with hydrochloric acid because it is a highly reactive metal. When magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid, it undergoes a single replacement reaction, where the magnesium atoms are oxidized and lose electrons to form Mg2+ ions. These Mg2+ ions then combine with chloride ions from hydrochloric acid to form magnesium chloride (MgCl2). Meanwhile, hydrogen gas (H2) is produced as a byproduct of the reaction.

Answer 2

The magnesium reacts with the acid, producing visible bubbles of hydrogen gas.

Step-by-step explanation:

Optional) If the flame of a butane fireplace lighter is held above the bursting bubbles, they will produce audible pops as the hydrogen ignites. Magnesium ribbon is a flammable solid. Hydrochloric acid is a corrosive liquid. Hope this helps :).