What determines whether one metal will replace another metal from a compound in a single-replacement reaction?

In a single-replacement reaction, one metal replaces another metal from a compound based on the activity or reactivity series of metals. This series is a list that ranks metals based on their ability to displace other metals from compounds. The position of a metal in the series determines whether it will replace another metal from a compound.

To determine whether one metal will replace another metal, you can follow these steps:

1. Understand the reactivity series: Familiarize yourself with the reactivity series of metals. The reactivity series is a list of metals arranged in order of their reactivity, starting from the most reactive to the least reactive.

2. Compare the metals: Compare the metal that is added to the metal present in the compound. If the added metal is higher in the reactivity series compared to the metal present in the compound, a displacement reaction will occur.

3. Look for displacement: If the added metal is more reactive, it will displace the less reactive metal from its compound. On the other hand, if the added metal is less reactive, no displacement reaction will occur.

4. Observe reactions: Carry out experiments or observations to verify the displacement of one metal by another metal. For example, if you place a more reactive metal, such as zinc, into a solution of copper sulfate, you will observe a redox reaction where zinc displaces copper from the compound. Copper will then deposit on the surface of the zinc.

Remember that the reactivity series determines the order of metals in terms of their ability to displace others from compounds. It's crucial to have a good understanding of the reactivity series to predict whether one metal will replace another in a single-replacement reaction.