Electrochemistry- The electrochemical series

The 

The electrochemical series is defined as a list of elements in order of their standard electrode potentials. The series lists elements in order of their ability to be oxidised, ie their ability to lose electrons. Metals at the top of the series will displace those lower down, from a solution of their salts.

For example, magnesium is higher in the series than copper as magnesium has a tendency to lose electrons, and as copper has a tendency to gain electrons. So if magnesium is dipped into a solution of copper sulfate, the magnesium will become coated with copper. The magnesium is oxidised and the copper is reduced.

Another example of the effect of the electrochemical series is the reaction between iron and copper. This is applied in industry as scrap iron can be used to extract copper from its salts in a solution. This is a displacement reaction

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