Atomic StructureTopic Summary
Topic Summary: Group 1 Alkali Metals
Part of Group 1: Alkali Metals — GCSE Chemistry
This topic summary covers Topic Summary: Group 1 Alkali Metals 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 12 of 12 in this topic. Use this topic summary to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 12 of 12
Practice
20 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
Topic Summary: Group 1 Alkali Metals
Key Terms
- Alkali metals: Group 1, 1 outer electron
- Reactivity trend: Increases down Group 1
- Shielding: Inner electrons reduce nuclear pull
- Metal hydroxide: Product of water reaction
Must-Know Facts
- Soft, low density, low melting point
- Stored under oil (prevent air/water reaction)
- React with water → hydroxide + hydrogen
- 2Na + 2H₂O → 2NaOH + H₂
- Li: gentle fizz; Na: vigorous; K: lilac flame
- Reactivity increases ↓ (outer electron further, weaker attraction)