Why does only magnesium and manganese react with dilute nitric acid to produce hydrogen gas?
Dear Student
Magnesium and manganese are metals having low electronegativity. Hydrogen is not as metallic - it has a higher electronegativity; it holds on to its valance electron more strongly. Hence, the manganese and magnesium donate their electrons to the hydrogen ions which then become hydrogen gas, leaving behind the manganese and magnesium in the form of ions. The electrons migrate to the element that attracts them more strongly.
Hope this information will clear your doubts about the topic.
Regards
Magnesium and manganese are metals having low electronegativity. Hydrogen is not as metallic - it has a higher electronegativity; it holds on to its valance electron more strongly. Hence, the manganese and magnesium donate their electrons to the hydrogen ions which then become hydrogen gas, leaving behind the manganese and magnesium in the form of ions. The electrons migrate to the element that attracts them more strongly.
Hope this information will clear your doubts about the topic.
Regards