Question

Why the more reactive alkali metals than alkaline earth metals?

Answer 1

This is because alkali metals need to give away 1 electron to achieve octet configuration which is extremely stable whereas alkali earth metals need to give out 2 electrons. Hence Alkali earth metals easily donate 1 electron and becomes stable

Answer 2

Answer:

(1) The alkali metals and alkaline earth metals are very reactive due to their low ionisation enthalpy. As a result they are always found in combined state.

(2) Alkali metals due to their large atomic raii and low ionisation enthalpy form univalent positiveions M^+ easily. Therefore, they are more reactive than alkaline earth metals.

(3) Alkaline earth metals form bivalent positive ions M^2^+ The reactivity of these metal, increases down the group as the ionisation enthalpy decreases in a group