The Summary of Alkali Metal's Characteristics [Group1A]

Rucete ✏ Chemistry In a Nutshell

Group 1 Atoms - Alkali Metal

1 Atom : Li (3) Na (11) K (19) Rb (37) Cs (55) Fr (87) Uue (119)

2 Low ionization energies

3 Tendency to lose single valence electron

4 High reactivity and not found free form

5 Reaction of water
 - Generate hydrogen gas and metal hydroxide

6 Combination with oxygen
 Create stable forms of various oxyides
 Ex) LiO2, Na2O2

7 Sodium oxide that reacts with water forms base
 --> Na2O(s) + H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq)


Physical characteristics : Alkali metals are generally silver-white and are very soft and low-density solids.

Because of its highly reactive nature, when left in the air, it reacts rapidly and the silver-white gloss on the surface disappears. Therefore, in order to preserve alkali metals, organic hydrocarbons in liquid such as paraffin should be locked in a brown bottle where light is blocked so that contact with oxygen, water, etc. should be blocked and stored in a cool shade.

Due to the strong reactivity of the alkali metal itself, the skin should be treated to avoid direct contact with the skin, and always be careful because contact with water in a small amount will cause an explosive reaction. Explosives are also made using explosive properties.