This document outlines the syllabus for a unit on metals and their properties and uses. It covers distinguishing metals from non-metals, interpreting diagrams of metal alloys, explaining the reactivity series of metals and how it relates to extracting metals from ores. Specific metals discussed include potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, hydrogen, copper and aluminium. The uses of different metals like aluminium in aircraft and food containers, and zinc for galvanizing steel are also addressed.

1. 07/09/13
C10 MetalsC10 Metals
Syllabus statementsSyllabus statements

2. 10.1 Properties of metals10.1 Properties of metals
1. Distinguish between metals and non-metals by
their general physical and chemical properties.
2. Identify and interpret diagrams that
represent the structure of an alloy.
3. Explain why metals are often used in the form
of alloys.

3. 10.2 Reactivity series10.2 Reactivity series
1. Place in order of reactivity: potassium, sodium,
calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, hydrogen and
copper, by reference to the reactions (if any) of
the elements with:
•water or steam
•dilute hydrochloric acid (except for alkali
metals).

4. 10.2 Reactivity series10.2 Reactivity series
2. Compare the reactivity series to the tendency
of a metal to form its positive ion, illustrated by
its reaction, if any, with:
•the aqueous ions of other listed metals
•the oxides of the other listed metals.
3. Deduce an order of reactivity from a given set
of experimental results.

5. 10.3 Extraction of metals10.3 Extraction of metals
1. Describe the use of carbon in the extraction of
some metals from their ores.
2. Describe the essential reactions in the
extraction of iron in the blast furnace.
3. Relate the method of extraction of a metal
from its ore to its position in the reactivity
series.

6. 10.4 Uses of metals10.4 Uses of metals
1. Explain the use of aluminium in aircraft
manufacture in terms of the properties of the
metal and alloys made from it.
2. Explain the use of zinc for galvanising steel,
and for sacrificial protection.
3. Explain the use of aluminium in food containers
because of its resistance to corrosion.

7. 10.4 Uses of metals10.4 Uses of metals
1. Explain the use of aluminium in aircraft
manufacture in terms of the properties of the
metal and alloys made from it.
2. Explain the use of zinc for galvanising steel,
and for sacrificial protection.
3. Explain the use of aluminium in food containers
because of its resistance to corrosion.