CAIE IGCSE Chemistry Apparent Unreactivity of Aluminium

Practise explaining aluminium's delayed reactions and corrosion resistance through its thin, adherent and protective aluminium oxide surface layer.

Exam points

state that aluminium rapidly forms a thin aluminium oxide coating at its surface
explain that the oxide layer prevents reactants from reaching the underlying aluminium
distinguish apparent protection from low reactivity because aluminium is high in the series

[Maximum number: 1]

Some elements are shown in the order they appear in the reactivity series. The most reactive element is at the top.
> sodium calcium magnesium aluminium zinc iron hydrogen copper

In an experiment, a sample of aluminium appeared less reactive than expected.

Explain why.

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9.4.5—Apparent unreactivity of aluminium in question 1