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

143082 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What type of bonding would be in NaCl?


Why do skeletal formulae not show the hydrogens bonded to carbons but do on other elements?


Explain why giant ionic lattices can conduct electricity when molten or in solution rather than as a solid.


Define an exothermic 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