Periodic table ; group 1, alkali

Question 1

What are alkali metals?

Answer 1

Alkali metals are a group of elements found in Group 1 of the periodic table, which are highly reactive and include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium.

Question 2

Name the first three alkali metals in order.

Answer 2

Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K).

Question 3

What happens to the reactivity of alkali metals as you move down the group?

Answer 3

Reactivity increases as you move down the group due to the outer electron being further from the nucleus and more easily lost.

Question 4

Why must alkali metals be stored in oil?

Answer 4

Alkali metals are stored in oil to prevent them from reacting with moisture and oxygen in the air, which can cause them to catch fire or explode.

Question 5

Describe the reaction of sodium (Na) with water.

Answer 5

Sodium reacts with water to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂), producing bubbles and heat; the hydrogen may ignite.

Question 6

What is a characteristic physical property of alkali metals?

Answer 6

Alkali metals are soft and can be easily cut with a knife; they also have low melting and boiling points compared to most other metals.

Question 7

What type of ion do alkali metals form when they lose their outer electron?

Answer 7

Alkali metals form cations with a +1 charge (e.g., Na⁺, K⁺) when they lose their one outer electron.

Question 8

Give an example of a reaction between an alkali metal and a halogen.

Answer 8

When sodium (Na) reacts with chlorine (Cl), it forms sodium chloride (NaCl), a common table salt

Question 9

Which alkali metal is used in batteries and why?

Answer 9

Lithium (Li) is used in batteries because it has a high energy density and can store and release energy efficiently.

Question 10

What is the product of the reaction between potassium (K) and water?

Answer 10

Potassium reacts vigorously with water to produce potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂), often igniting the hydrogen.

Question 11

How do alkali metals react with acids?

Answer 11

Alkali metals react with acids to produce a salt and hydrogen gas. For example, sodium reacts with hydrochloric acid to produce sodium chloride and hydrogen.

Question 12

What safety precautions should be taken when handling alkali metals?

Answer 12

Use gloves and goggles, handle them under oil, and avoid contact with water and moisture to prevent dangerous reactions.