11. Give four characteristics of:-
(a) Alkali metals
(b) alkaline earth metals
Answers
Answer:
The alkali metals are found in group 1 of the periodic table. They were once known as group IA.
Characteristics of alkali metals are: -
High reactive metals
Not found freely in nature
Stored in a mineral oil solution
Low melting points
Low densities (lower than other metals)
Low electronegativity
Low ionization energy
React easily with halogens
One electron in their outer shell which is lost during ionic bonding with other elements
Largest atomic radii in their periods
Silver in color
Malleable
Softer than most other metals
Ductile
Explode when exposed to water
Tarnish easily
Good conductors of heat and electricity
The alkaline earth metals are in the second group of the periodic table. Some characteristics of alkaline earth metals are:-
An oxidation number of +2 which makes them very reactive
Not found freely in nature
Present in the earth's crust but not in their basic form
Distributed in rock structure
Two electrons in their outer shell
High boiling points
High melting points
Low density
Low electron affinity
Low electronegativity
Silver in color
Ductile
Malleable
React easily with the halogens and water
Softer and stronger than most other metals (except the alkali metals)
Explanation: