Group 1 Metals
The elements in Group 1 of the Periodic Table are called the alkali metals. They include lithium (Li), sodium (Na) and potassium (K).
Physical Properties
- Easy to cut
- Shiny when freshly cut
- Low density
Chemical Properties
- Metals are very reactive with chemical reactivity increasing down the group.
- All the metals react :
- :with oxygen to form oxides e.g. Li2O
- :with water to form hydroxides and hydrogen e.g. KOH
- : with halogens to form halides e.g. NaOH
Alkali Metal Compounds
- All alkali metal compounds are stable, this is because the alkali metals are so reactive.
- Alkali metals have to be extracted from their ores by electrolysis
- Alkali metal compounds are usually colourless
- The hydroxides are strong alkalis
Alkali metals
This video explains Group 1 metals
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