Question

Why are Alkali metals good reducing agents?

Answer 1

1. Alkali metals are the elements belonging to group 1 of the periodic table.
2. The general electronic configuration of Alkali metals are $\left[\mathrm{Noble}\mathrm{gas}\right]n{s}^1$where n is the valence shell.
3. Alkali metals are highly electropositive.
4. Alkali metals have low ionization potential and have smallest nuclear charge and hence can easily remove an electron.
5. Reducing agents including elements like Potassium $\left(\mathrm{K}\right)$, Calcium $\left(\mathrm{Ca}\right)$, Barium $\left(\mathrm{Ba}\right)$, Sodium$\left(\mathrm{Na}\right)$ and Hydrogen containing compounds like $\mathrm{NaH},\mathrm{LiH},{\mathrm{LiAlH}}_4\mathrm{and}{\mathrm{CaH}}_2$.
6. Due to the low ionization energies and greater atomic radii, Alkali metals are highly reactive metals and strong reducing agents.