The alkali
metals are the elements located in Group IA of the periodic table.
The alkali metals are lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium,
and francium. Alkali metals have one electron in their outer shell, which is
loosely bound. This gives them the largest atomic radii of the elements in
their respective periods. Their low ionization energies result in their
metallic properties and high reactivities. An alkali metal can easily lose its
valence electron to form the univalent cation. Alkali metals have low
electronegativities. They react readily with nonmetals, particularly halogens.
Summary of Common Properties
·
Lower densities than other metals
·
One loosely bound valence electron
·
Largest atomic radii in their periods
·
Low ionization energies
·
Low electronegativities
·
Highly reactive