reactivity of group 1 metals

Question 1

why do group 1 elements react like this?

Answer 1

in group 1, elements e.g. potassium further down the group have more electron shells. this means the outer electron (-) is further from the nucleus (+). the outer electron, is therefore, most easily lost as less strongly pulled/held by nucleus

Question 2

the lithium floated on water.
state two other observations that the student would see during the reaction.

Answer 2

•fizzing
•hydrogen gas produced
•universal indicator changes to purple.
•it moves on the water’s surface

Question 3

describe a simple test and the result that would show the gas was hydrogen.

Answer 3

a lighted splint, goes out with a squeaky pop.

Question 4

all group 1 metals have similar reactions with water.
state why, in terms of electronic structure.

Answer 4

all have 1 electron on the outer shell.

Question 5

two properties of group 1 metals

Answer 5

1. they react with oxygen
2. they have low melting points

Question 6

potassium is more reactive than sodium. explain why, in terms of electronic structure.

Answer 6

potassium has more outer shells as it is lower in the group. this creates a larger distance between the nucleus and electrons than sodium. electrons are easier to be lost and there is a weaker connection between the nucleus and electrons.

Question 7

most reactive: potassium
least reactive: lithium
why?

Answer 7

potassium showed a more volatile reaction, lithium showed a less volatile reaction.