[jocelync]

I've just been reviewing reactions involving metals and have come across a few questions i dont understand 

1. Write a balanced equation for the following reactions of metals with dilute acids. If no reaction occurs write "No reaction"
a) Sodium + Cold water
b) Zinc + Steam
c) Platinum + Steam
d) Magnesium + Cold water

When writing the equation I put Cold water as a aqueous solution and the same steam.. But in the answers they have them all as a gas. I understand why steam could be a gas but not why water can be called a gas. I put c) and d) as no reaction however, the book has put that Magnesium does react with gas. Also, why have they called both water and steam a dilute acid? they did the same in the next question too.

2. Write a balanced equation for the following reactions of metals with dilute acids. If no reaction occurs write "No reaction"
a) Potassium + Oxygen
b) Gold + Oxygen
c) Aluminium + Oxygen
d) Copper + Oxygen

Im not sure if there is something that i am just not getting but if anyone is able to help me out it would be appreciated

Jocelyn

[Dan]

These sound like typographical errors. Stick to writing the equation for the reaction between the substances listed each part of the question.

Cold water should be H₂O_(l) and steam is gaseous water by definition, H₂O_(g)

Mg does react with water, although slowly if the water is cold.

[Dolphinsiu]

4K + O2 --> 2K2O
Au  + O2 --> no reaction
2Al + 3O2 --> 2Al2O3
2Cu + O2 --> 2CuO

[jocelync]

thanks