Alkaline metal

Alkaline Metals

The alkaline metals are a group of chemical elements found in Group 1 of the periodic table. They include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium. These metals are characterized by their shiny, silvery appearance and their high reactivity with other elements, particularly oxygen and water.

Characteristics

Alkaline metals are distinguished by their single valence electron in their outermost energy level, which results in their high reactivity. This single electron is easily lost in chemical reactions, resulting in a positive ion, or cation.

Alkaline metals are also known for their low densities and low melting points relative to other metals. They are soft enough to be cut with a knife and are excellent conductors of heat and electricity.

Reactivity

The reactivity of alkaline metals increases down the group. This is due to the increase in atomic size, which results in the outermost electron being less tightly held by the nucleus and therefore more easily lost in chemical reactions.

When exposed to air, alkaline metals react with oxygen to form oxides. This reaction is so rapid for some of the heavier alkaline metals that they must be stored under oil to prevent reaction with the air.

Alkaline metals also react vigorously with water, producing hydrogen gas and alkaline hydroxides. This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat, and can be explosive with heavier alkaline metals.

Uses

Alkaline metals have various uses in industry and technology. Sodium and potassium, for example, are used in a wide range of compounds, from table salt (sodium chloride) to fertilizers (potassium nitrate). Lithium is used in batteries and mood-stabilizing drugs, while rubidium and cesium are used in atomic clocks and other precision instruments.

Health and Safety

Due to their high reactivity, alkaline metals can be hazardous. Contact with skin can cause burns, and ingestion or inhalation can be toxic. Proper safety precautions should be taken when handling these elements.

See Also

• Alkaline earth metals
• Transition metals
• Post-transition metals
• Metalloids
• Nonmetals
• Halogens
• Noble gases