When aluminum (Al) is combined with tin(II) chloride (SnCl₂), a single displacement reaction occurs. Aluminum is more reactive than tin, so it displaces the tin from the chloride compound. Here's what happens:

Reaction Equation:

2Al(s) + 3SnCl₂(aq) → 2AlCl₃(aq) + 3Sn(s)

Explanation:

* Aluminum (Al): A solid metal, it acts as the reducing agent.

* Tin(II) chloride (SnCl₂): A solution of tin(II) ions (Sn²⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻).

* Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃): A soluble salt formed in the reaction.

* Tin (Sn): A solid metal that precipitates out of the solution.

Steps:

1. Aluminum atoms lose electrons and become aluminum ions (Al³⁺).

2. Tin(II) ions (Sn²⁺) gain electrons and become tin atoms (Sn).

3. Aluminum ions combine with chloride ions to form aluminum chloride (AlCl₃), which remains in solution.

4. Tin atoms precipitate out of the solution as a solid.

Observations:

* You would observe a gray solid (tin) forming at the bottom of the solution.

* The solution would likely change color as aluminum chloride forms.

Key Points:

* This reaction is a classic example of a single displacement reaction.

* The reactivity of metals can be predicted using the activity series. Aluminum is higher in the activity series than tin, indicating it is more reactive.

* The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.

Let me know if you have any other questions!