Short Answer:
Some metals do not react with acids because they are less reactive or very stable. Metals like copper, silver, and gold have low chemical reactivity, so they cannot displace hydrogen from acids.
This property is important in practical applications. These metals are used in coins, jewelry, and pipes because they resist corrosion and do not react with acids, making them durable and long-lasting.
Detailed Explanation:
Metals and Reactivity
Metals react with acids depending on their position in the reactivity series. Highly reactive metals like zinc, magnesium, and calcium react easily with acids to produce hydrogen gas and salts. Less reactive metals, however, do not react with dilute acids under normal conditions.
Reason for Non-Reactivity
- Low Reactivity:
- Metals like copper, silver, and gold are low in the reactivity series.
- They do not have a strong tendency to lose electrons, so they cannot displace hydrogen ions from acids.
- Stability of Metal Atoms:
- Some metals have filled electron shells and stable atomic structures, making them chemically inert.
- Corrosion Resistance:
- Less reactive metals resist oxidation and do not form salts easily.
- For example, gold and platinum do not tarnish or corrode in acids.
Examples of Non-Reactive Metals
- Copper (Cu): Does not react with hydrochloric or sulfuric acid under normal conditions.
- Silver (Ag): Resistant to most acids except concentrated nitric acid.
- Gold (Au) and Platinum (Pt): Extremely unreactive and used in jewelry and electronics.
Practical Importance
- Coins and Jewelry:
- Metals that do not react with acids are ideal for making coins, ornaments, and jewelry because they retain their appearance over time.
- Industrial Applications:
- Copper pipes and tanks do not react with water or acids, making them suitable for plumbing and storage.
- Platinum is used in chemical reactors and catalytic converters because it does not react with chemicals easily.
- Durability:
- Non-reactive metals provide longevity and reduce maintenance costs in industrial and domestic applications.
Exceptions
- Some less reactive metals can react with strong oxidizing acids like nitric acid.
- For example, silver reacts with concentrated nitric acid to form silver nitrate.
Summary
- Non-reactive metals do not react with acids due to their low reactivity and stable electron configuration.
- This property is beneficial in applications requiring durability and resistance to corrosion.
- The reactivity series helps predict which metals will react with acids and which will not.
Conclusion:
Some metals, such as copper, silver, and gold, do not react with acids because they are low in reactivity and have stable atomic structures. Their resistance to chemical attack makes them valuable in jewelry, coins, plumbing, and industrial applications where durability and corrosion resistance are essential.