Why does reactivity increase as you go down Group 1 metals?

An atom is made in such a way that the nucleus with the positive charges (protons) is in the centre and the negative charge (electrons) are arranged in shells around it.

All group 1 metals have one electron in its outer shell. As we go down the group, the atom gets bigger. The bigger the atom, the further away the last electron. Therefore, the attraction between the nucleus and the last electron gets weaker. This makes it easier for the atom to give up the electron which increases its reactivity. 

MP
Answered by Madhangi P. Chemistry tutor

134796 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the relative formula mass (Mr) of BaCO3


How to balance chemical equations (harder level question): C6H12O6 + O2 --> CO2 + H2O


What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?


Sodium hydroxide sol'n solution is poured into a beaker of hydrochloric acid which contains a thermometer showing room temperature. a) What is the name of the product produced? b) What type of reaction does the thermometer's temperature rise prove?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences