S-block elements

• The element are all reactive, electropositive (low electronegativity) metals
• Oxidation numbers are +1 and +2
• Metal + Oxygen -->Metal Oxide
• Metal + Water --> Metal Hydroxide + Hydrogen
• Metal + Acid --> Salt + Hydrogen
• They are typically reducing agents in a reaction as they donate electrons and therefore become oxidised.
• Reactivity increases down the group.
• Group 1 elements are more reactive than Group 2.
• All S-block metals react vigorously with acids.
• All react with oxygen and burn in air.
• All Group 2 carbonates are insoluble in water.
• S-block nitrates are soluble.

Group 1

Lithium= red

Sodium= strong persistent orange

Potassium= lilac (pink)

Rubidium= red (reddish-violet)

Caesium= blue-violet

Group 2

• Magnesium = No colour
• Calcium= orange-red
• Strontium= red
• Barium= pale green

Transition metals

• Copper= blue-green (often with white flashes)
• Lead= greyish-white