Question

The outer electronic configuration $n{s}^1$ represents:

• A. an alkaline earth metal
• B. a noble gas
• C. an alkali metal
• D. a chalcogen

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

an alkali metal

From the periodic table, it is clear that the general electronic configuration of the outermost shell of first group element is $n{s}^1$ where n represents the period number to which the element belongs. So they are placed in the s-block of the periodic table. On losing the lone electron it can attain the configuration of the previous inert gas. Hence, they show $+1$ oxidation state.