Group 1 – the alkali metals

• The elements in Group 1 of the periodic table are called the alkali metals and are very reactive
• They have 1 electron in their outer shell
• They form 1+ ions in reactions, producing an ionic compound which is white in colour
• The metals have to be stored under oil, to prevent reactions with air (oxygen) and water
• They react with water to form metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas. The metals float, fizz, move quickly, and potassium produces a lilac flame
• Reactivity increases as you go down group 1, so lithium is the least reactive and francium the most reactive
• The melting and boiling points of the alkali metals decreases as you go down group 1.
• The word, symbol and balanced equations for potassium reacting with water is as follows. Also included are the state symbols:

  A) O

  B) aq

  C) 2