Why does the reactivity of the Group 1 elements increase as you go down the group?

As you descend group 1, there is an increasing number of electron shells, therefore increasing the distance between the positive nucleus and the negative outer electron which decreases the attraction between the two. Due to the group 1 elements forming ionic compounds, they lose their outer electron when they react and so the weaker attraction between the nucleus and the outer electron means they are able to lose that electron more easily and therefore are more reactive.

BJ
Answered by Bethan J. Chemistry tutor

2336 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What factors increase rate of reaction? (For a reaction between two reagents in solution)


When do halogens displace each other in solutions of their salts?


Explain metallic bonding


Diamond and Graphite are both giant covalent structures. If they are both made of carbon why does diamond have a higher melting point?


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