Explain why the reactivity of the elements in group 1 increases as we go down the periodic table?

The reactivity of group 1 metals increases as we go down the periodic table because as we go down the group the electrons are further away from the nulceus as the number of shells increase and therefore the attraction the electron feels from the nucleus decreases due to the nucleus being more shielded by the increasing number of shells. As a result the electron in the outer shell is more easily lost to attain isoelectronic configuration, a stable state. This ease og loss of electron leads to an increase in reactivity. 

SK
Answered by SUNIYA K. Chemistry tutor

20204 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the Avogadro constant and what are moles?


What are the half equations representing the changes of Pb2+ and Br- in the electrolysis of lead bromide?


What are moles in Chemistry?


Please describe how temperature, concentration and the use of a catalyst affects rate of reaction.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning