group 1 - alkalis

• properties

  Alkali metals . . .

  • have low melting points
  • have low boiling points
  • are very soft ( can be cut with a knife)
  • from ionic compounds
• All have 1 outer electron which means they will have similar properties
• Why are alkali metals very reactive?

  As the group goes down, the atom gets larger meaning the more reactive it gets due to the electrons being further away from the nucleus.

  the attraction between the nucleus and outer shell gets weaker so an electron is easily lost.
• All Alkalis have to be stored in oil under an airtight container to prevent contact with oxygen and moisture
• Reactions with cold water produce Hydroxide and Hydrogen gas
• lower metal = higher reactivity
• (Metal) + water = (Metal) hydroxide + hydrogen

  _____ + 2H2O = (Metal) OH + H2
• If you mixed Lithium and water it would fizz steadily
• If you mixed Sodium with water the sodium would melt into a ball then fizz quickly
• If you mixed potassium with water it would give off sparks and hydrogen burns with a lilac flame