A student is given three metals, X, Y and Z to identify. The metals are magnesium, iron and copper. Plan an investigation to identify the three metals by comparing their reactions with dilute hydrochloric acid. Your plan should give valid results. – 6150

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1. Steps:
   Add each metal to dilute hydrochloric acid.

   Measure the temperature change, or look at the rate of bubbling, or the colour of the solution after the reaction.

   Copper shows no reaction – no temperature change and no bubbles.

   Magnesium reacts more than iron – it shows a bigger temperature rise, bubbles faster, or gives a colourless solution, while iron gives a coloured one.

   Control Variables:
   Use the same concentration and volume of acid.

   Use the same mass or number of moles of each metal.

   Keep the particle size of the metal the same.

   Make sure the acid starts at the same temperature for all tests.

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