What is the general equation for acid-metal reactions?

The general equation for acid-metal reactions is: Acid + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen gas.

In more detail, when an acid reacts with a metal, a salt and hydrogen gas are produced. This is a type of single displacement reaction where the metal displaces the hydrogen in the acid to form a salt. The hydrogen gas is then released. The general equation for this reaction is: Acid + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen gas.

For example, if hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with magnesium (Mg), the resulting products would be magnesium chloride (MgCl2), which is the salt, and hydrogen gas (H2). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction would be: 2HCl + Mg → MgCl2 + H2.

The type of salt that is produced depends on the specific acid and metal involved in the reaction. For instance, if sulphuric acid (H2SO4) reacts with zinc (Zn), the resulting products would be zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) and hydrogen gas (H2). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction would be: H2SO4 + Zn → ZnSO4 + H2.

It's important to note that not all metals react with acids. The reactivity series of metals can help predict which metals will react with acids. Metals that are above hydrogen in the reactivity series will react with acids to produce a salt and hydrogen gas. Metals that are below hydrogen in the reactivity series will not react with acids.

In summary, the general equation for acid-metal reactions is a useful tool in predicting the products of these reactions. It's a fundamental concept in GCSE Chemistry and understanding it will help you in your studies.