How does the reactivity of alkali metals compare to that of alkaline earth metals?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a comparison of the reactivity between alkali metals and alkaline earth metals, specifically which group is more reactive and under what conditions they react.
Answer
Alkali metals are more reactive.
Alkali metals are more reactive than alkaline earth metals.
Answer for screen readers
Alkali metals are more reactive than alkaline earth metals.
More Information
Alkali metals have a single valence electron, which they can lose easily compared to alkaline earth metals which have two valence electrons. This makes alkali metals more reactive.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume that having more valence electrons makes an element more reactive. In reality, elements with fewer valence electrons lose them more easily and are therefore more reactive.
Sources
- PS_Sect. 12.2 pg.344-350 (Grouping the Elements) - hilldale.k12.ok.us
- Why are alkali metals more reactive than alkaline-earth metals? - homework.study.com
- Alkaline Earth Metals | CK-12 Foundation - flexbooks.ck12.org
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