The Alkali Metals

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Which group of the periodic table are the alkali metals in?
The alkali metals are in Group 1.
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Why is this important?
periodic group = number of electrons in outer shell. So, all of the metals in group 1 have 1 electron in their outer shell.
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How does having 1 outer electron affect the properties of alkali metals?
Atoms are not happy unless they have full outer shells, which means that the alkali metals are itching to get rid of their one outer electron. This means that the group 1 elements react easily.
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Where do alkali metals react most vigorously?
The alkali metals react very vigorously in water.
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What do they form in this reaction?
When alkali metals react with water, HYDROXIDES are formed and an ALKALINE solution is produced.
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The elements in group 1 get...
more reactive as the atomic number increases (the further down the group you go)
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Why is this?
This is because the lone electron in the outer shell becomes further away from the nucleus so the attraction between them lessens, which means that it is easier for the atom to loose, making the atom more reactive.
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What else does the reaction between water and alkali metals do?
Hydrogen is produced, which is what you see fizzing.
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Why is this important?

Back

periodic group = number of electrons in outer shell. So, all of the metals in group 1 have 1 electron in their outer shell.

Card 3

Front

How does having 1 outer electron affect the properties of alkali metals?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

Where do alkali metals react most vigorously?

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

What do they form in this reaction?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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