5 Questions
Which group of elements in the Periodic Table are known as alkali metals?
Group IA
Which of the following elements has one electron in its outermost orbit?
All of the above
Which of the following statements about alkali metals is true?
They are soft and have low melting and boiling points.
What is the nature of alkali metal salts?
Ionic
Which of the following reactions represents the reaction of an alkali metal with oxygen?
4Na + O2 -> 2Na2O
Study Notes
Alkali Metals
- The alkali metals are the elements in Group 1 of the Periodic Table.
- These elements have one electron in their outermost orbit.
Properties of Alkali Metals
- Alkali metals readily lose one electron to form a positive ion (cation) with a charge of +1.
- Alkali metals are highly reactive, especially with water and oxygen.
Alkali Metal Salts
- Alkali metal salts are ionic compounds that consist of a positive alkali metal ion and a negative ion (anion).
- Alkali metal salts are usually white, crystalline solids that are soluble in water.
Reactions of Alkali Metals
- Alkali metals react with oxygen to form an oxide, releasing heat and light in the process.
- The general equation for the reaction of an alkali metal with oxygen is: 4M + O2 → 2M2O.
Test your knowledge of alkali metals and their properties with this quiz! Learn about elements such as lithium, sodium, and potassium, and their valency and placement on the Periodic Table. Discover why they are called alkali metals and how they react with water to form strong alkalies.
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