This exam tips covers Exam Tips for Displacement Reactions within Displacement Reactions for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Displacement Reactions in Chemical Changes for GCSE Chemistry with 22 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 11 of 13 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
💡 Exam Tips for Displacement Reactions
🎯 Common Question Types:
- Predict whether a displacement reaction occurs and write an equation (2-3 marks)
- Describe observations from a displacement experiment (2 marks)
- Write ionic equations removing spectator ions (2 marks)
- Identify what is oxidised and what is reduced in a reaction (2 marks)
- Write half equations for oxidation and reduction (HT, 3 marks)
📝 Key Command Words:
- Predict: Compare reactivity series positions; state yes/no and give reason
- Describe observations: Say what you SEE — colour changes, solids forming, temperature change
- Write the ionic equation: Remove spectator ions from the full equation
- Identify: State which species is oxidised (loses electrons) and which is reduced
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Forgetting to check reactivity series before predicting whether a reaction occurs
- Including spectator ions in the ionic equation
- Confusing which species is oxidised and which is reduced — use OIL RIG
- Describing only the colour change OR only the solid — full marks need both observations
- Saying a reaction occurs when the added metal is less reactive — no reaction happens
Practice questions for Displacement Reactions
Which statement correctly describes a displacement reaction?
In the reaction between zinc and copper sulfate solution, explain which species is oxidised and which is reduced. Include half equations in your answer. [3 marks]
Quick recall flashcards
What colour is bromine?
Orange/brown
What does OIL RIG stand for?
Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons)