alkali metals

How many electrons do alkali metals have in their outer shell?

1 electron.

What ions do alkali metals form?

+1 ions (by losing one electron).

What happens to reactivity as you go down Group 1?

Reactivity increases.

Why does reactivity increase down Group 1?

The outer electron is further from the nucleus and more shielded, so it is lost more easily.

What happens to melting and boiling points down Group 1?

They decrease.

Most reactive lowest melting and boiling point but highest relative atomic mass

Least reactive highest melting and boiling point lowest relative atomic mass

What happens when alkali metals react with water?

They form a metal hydroxide (alkaline solution) and hydrogen gas.

General equation for alkali metal + water?

2M + 2H₂O → 2MOH + H₂

What happens when alkali metals react with oxygen?

They form metal oxides.

Why do all Group 1 elements have similar properties?

They all have 1 electron in their outer shell.

General equation for alkali metal + water?

2M + 2H₂O → 2MOH + H₂.

What do alkali metals form when they react with chlorine?

White crystalline salts (metal chlorides).

General equation for alkali metal + chlorine?

2M + Cl₂ → 2MCl.

What do alkali metals form when they react with oxygen?

Metal oxides (e.g., Na₂O, K₂O).

What extra compound can potassium form with oxygen?

Potassium superoxide (KO₂).