Question

Why are they called alkali metals?

Answer 1

1. The elements are arranged in the periodic table as per their physical and chemical properties.
2. The group 1 elements are called alkali metals because of their unique chemical property.
3. The alkali metals have only one electron present in their outer shell, and so by removing this electron they attain a stable noble gas configuration.
4. They are highly reactive in nature.
5. The alkali metals are Lithium, Sodium, Potassium, Rubidium, Cesium, and Francium.
6. These alkali metals react with water to form soluble hydroxides called alkalis.
7. Example: Formation of alkali
   $\underset{(\mathrm{Alkali}\mathrm{metal})}{2\mathrm{Na}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)}+2{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{l}\right)\to \underset{\left(\mathrm{Alkali}\right)}{2\mathrm{NaOH}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)}+{\mathrm{H}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)$
8. Alkali is caustic in nature and considered to be very strong bases.