Which of the following metals will dissolve in HCl?

Question

Which of the following metals will dissolve in HCl?

Ba

Cd

K

Zn

all of the above

Answer 1

Compare reduction potentials of the the metal with that for hydrogen. If the metal is more active (will replace hydrogen), then it should be soluble (dissolve in) HCl.

Ba, Cd, and Zn all will displace hydrogen so all should dissolve in HCl

K will not displace hydrogen so it should not dissolve in HCl