What is the reactivity series of elements and how can it be organized?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the reactivity series of elements, specifically how to organize a list of elements from more reactive to less reactive. Participants explore the context of the question, the nature of chemical reactivity, and the appropriateness of the forum for such a topic.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants request a specific ordering of elements based on reactivity, but the initial question lacks clarity regarding the context and criteria for reactivity.
  • One participant questions the feasibility of directly comparing the reactivity of certain elements due to their differing chemical properties.
  • There is a discussion about whether phosphorus can speed up chemical reactions in a manner similar to sulfur, with some participants challenging the generalization that sulfur accelerates reactions.
  • Another participant suggests that understanding the reactivity series requires more in-depth knowledge, potentially from a general chemistry textbook or introductory physical chemistry course.
  • A participant provides links to Wikipedia pages on the reactivity series and related concepts, indicating these resources may help clarify the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the clarity and appropriateness of the original question, as well as on the nature of chemical reactivity among the elements mentioned. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific ordering of elements and the general properties of sulfur and phosphorus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the original question's assumptions and the need for a clearer definition of reactivity. There is also a suggestion that the chemistry involved may require more extensive background knowledge than what is provided in the thread.

taregg
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can you write theae elements ...from more reactive to less reactive...side to side
C Br N O I Cl S F P
 
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taregg said:
can you write theae elements ...from more reactive to less reactive...side to side
C Br N O I Cl S F P
What is the context of your question? Is it for schoolwork or self-study? Why did you post it in the Physics forum instead of the Chemistry forum? Looks more like Chem to me.

And what do you think the correct order should be and why? And reactive with what?

(EDIT -- thread has been moved to the appropriate forum)
 
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Question as asked doesn't make much sense. Some of these elements can be easily compared directly, but chemistry of some is way too different for a meaningful, direct comparison.
 
does phosphor speed the chimcal reaction...like sulfur
 
taregg said:
does phosphor speed the chimcal reaction...like sulfur

Sulfur doesn't speed up chemical reactions. Perhaps some of them, but your question is suggesting it is a general property of sulfur. It is not.
 
what you mean...perhaps some of them..can speed the chimcal reaction. ...can you explain more...
 
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taregg said:
what you mean...perhaps some of them..can speed the chimcal reaction. ...can you explain more...

Sorry, but no. This is not something for a short post, this is something that requires a general chemistry book, plus large parts of an intro Physical Chemistry course.
 
This Wikipedia page (Reactivity Series) may give you some help on clarifying your question. You could also take a look here - Reactivity (chemistry) - Wiki

Note to Admins/Moderators - Please edit or remove this post if it breaches the homework help rules.
 

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