Group 1 - physical properties

• What is the first vertical column of elements in the periodic table called?

  Group 1
• What are the alkali metals in Group 1 known for?

  They have similar physical and chemical properties.
• Which element starts Group 1 in the periodic table?

  Lithium
• Which element ends Group 1 in the periodic table?

  Francium
• What is a physical property?

  A description of the appearance or behavior of a substance without involving chemical reactions.
• What are some physical properties of alkali metals?

  They are soft, have relatively low melting points, and have low densities.
• How does the melting point change in Group 1 as you go down the group?

  • The melting point decreases as you move down Group 1.
  • Example melting points:
  • Lithium: 180°C
  • Sodium: 98°C
  • Potassium: 63°C
  • Rubidium: 39°C
  • Caesium: 28°C
• What is the predicted melting point of francium based on the trend in Group 1?

  23-27°C
• Why is the melting point of francium predicted to be lower than that of caesium?

  Because melting point decreases as you move down the group in the periodic table.
• What are the key characteristics of alkali metals in Group 1?

  • Soft and can be cut with a knife
  • Relatively low melting points
  • Low densities
  • React with water and oxygen