Which of the following is least reactive metal in its chemical properties?

Key Points

• Silver (Ag) is one of the least reactive metals and does not easily react with air, water, or most acids. This inertness makes it highly valuable in jewelry and electronics.
• Silver is found in its elemental form in nature and is resistant to corrosion and oxidation under normal conditions, unlike more reactive metals such as magnesium or iron.
• Compared to other metals in the question, such as magnesium (highly reactive) or iron (prone to rusting), silver remains stable and unreactive in most environments.

Additional Information

• Reactivity Series of Metals:
  • Metals are arranged in a reactivity series based on their ability to lose electrons and form positive ions.
  • Highly reactive metals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium are at the top of the series, while less reactive metals like copper, silver, and gold are at the bottom.
• Comparing the Metals in the Question:
  • Silver (Ag): Least reactive; does not corrode or react easily with acids.
  • Magnesium (Mg): Highly reactive; reacts with air and water to form magnesium hydroxide or oxide.
  • Lead (Pb): Moderately reactive; reacts slowly with air and acids but forms protective oxide layers.
  • Iron (Fe): Reacts with oxygen and moisture to form rust (iron oxide).
• Applications of Silver:
  • Silver's low reactivity makes it ideal for use in jewelry, coins, and electronics.
  • Its high conductivity and resistance to corrosion are valuable in electrical contacts and circuits.
  • Despite its inertness, silver's antimicrobial properties are utilized in medical applications such as wound dressings and coatings for medical devices.