Q

Which of the following options represents metals that do NOT react with cold water?

ALP CBT-1, 25-Nov-24 S-1 2024
✓ Answer: D Aluminium, iron and zinc
Aluminium, iron and zinc do not react with cold water. Aluminium forms a strong aluminium oxide layer on its surface, which prevents water from coming into direct contact with the metal. Iron and zinc are less reactive metals compared to sodium or calcium. Their reaction with water is very slow and requires higher temperatures (like steam) to proceed. Metals sodium, calcium and potassium have a vigorous reaction with cold water to form metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas.