How acids and bases do react with metals?

When acids and bases react with metals, they can undergo different chemical reactions. Let's explore the reactions separately:

Reaction of acids with metals:
When an acid reacts with a metal, it typically produces a salt and hydrogen gas. The general equation for this reaction is:

Acid + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen gas

For example, if you react hydrochloric acid (HCl) with zinc (Zn), the reaction can be represented as:

2HCl + Zn → ZnCl2 + H2

In this reaction, zinc displaces hydrogen from the acid, forming zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and releasing hydrogen gas.

The reactivity of metals with acids can vary. Some metals, such as zinc, iron, and aluminum, react readily with acids. However, noble metals like gold and platinum do not react with most acids.

Reaction of bases with metals:
Bases also have the potential to react with certain metals, usually producing a salt and hydrogen gas. The reaction is similar to that of acids:

Base + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen gas

For instance, if you react sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with aluminum (Al), the reaction can be represented as:

2NaOH + 2Al → 2NaAlO2 + H2

In this reaction, aluminum displaces hydrogen from the base, forming sodium aluminate (NaAlO2) and releasing hydrogen gas.

It's important to note that not all metals react with bases. Some metals, like copper and silver, do not react with typical bases under normal conditions.

Overall, the reaction of acids and bases with metals involves the displacement of hydrogen from the acid or base by the metal, resulting in the formation of a salt and the release of hydrogen gas. The specific reaction and products depend on the nature of the acid or base and the metal involved.