Is Potassium More Reactive Than Lithium? A Look at the Electrochemical Series

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The discussion centers on the reactivity of potassium (K) compared to lithium (Li) as indicated by the electrochemical series. While the electrochemical series ranks lithium above potassium, potassium is established as more reactive due to its ability to displace lithium from lithium chloride (LiCl). The conversation highlights the importance of defining "more reactive" and clarifies that standard potentials are based on standard conditions, which may not apply to all reactions involving solids.

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The electrochemical series:
http://www.chemguide.co.uk/physical/redoxeqia/ecs.html#top
ranks Li above K
but potassium is more reactive than lithium
given that Lithium gives up electrons more easily according to the electrochemical series, how can this be?
 
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jsmith613 said:
potassium is more reactive than lithium

Define "more reactive".
 
Borek said:
Define "more reactive".

will displace it from its compound
so K will displace Li from LiCl
 
jsmith613 said:
so K will displace Li from LiCl

Will it? Even if, standard potentials are for standard conditions (activity of everything equal 1). Reacting two solids has nothing to do with standard conditions.
 
Can you provide a reference for your claim. I tried Googling it and kind find any reference to Potassium displacing Lithium from LiCl.
 

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