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Year 10 - Science

Chemical reactions of acids with metals and metal carbonates

Making salts

Unit Summary

This unit explores empirical formulae, balanced chemical and ionic equations, gas identification, acid reactions, and pH as a measure of hydrogen ion concentration. It covers separation techniques and focuses on planning experiments, accurate measurements, safety, and communicating findings.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to write balanced equations for acid – metal reactions, as well as acid - metal carbonate reactions, and predict the names and states of products.

Key Notes

  • metal + acid ⭢ salt + hydrogen; metal carbonate + acid → salt + water + carbon dioxide
  • The test for hydrogen gas is to introduce a lighted splint, which will make a squeaky pop in hydrogen.
  • The name of a salt formed is dependent on the acid used.
  • (s), (l), (g), (aq) in chemical equations identify the state of substances as solid, liquid, gas or in aqueous solution.
  • Carbon dioxide can be bubbled through limewater, which turns cloudy (test for CO₂).

Vocabulary To Learn

  • balanced equation: This describes a reaction using a symbol equation with coefficients which ensure there are equal numbers of atoms of each element on both sides of the symbol equation.
  • state symbol: These are used in chemical equations to indicate the physical state of a substance.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils often forget that gases are produced when metals and metal carbonates react with acids.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

metal + acid ⭢ salt + hydrogen; metal carbonate + acid → salt + water + carbon dioxide. The test for hydrogen gas is to introduce a lighted splint, which will make a squeaky pop in hydrogen.

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'balanced equation'

This describes a reaction using a symbol equation with coefficients which ensure there are equal numbers of atoms of each element on both sides of the symbol equation. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils often forget that gases are produced when metals and metal carbonates react with acids. Correction: Emphasise the tests for the gases as a way to remember that they are produced. Writing balanced symbol equations also helps as the pupils can see what elements would be present in the products formed.

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