This key facts covers Physical Properties within Group 1: Alkali Metals for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Group 1: Alkali Metals in Atomic Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 5 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 5 of 12
Practice
20 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
📌 Physical Properties
Alkali metals are unusual for metals:
- Soft — can be cut with a knife!
- Low density — Li, Na, K float on water
- Low melting points — much lower than typical metals
- Shiny when fresh — but quickly tarnish in air
Trends down the group:
- Melting point decreases
- Density increases
- Reactivity increases