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

2505 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Crude oil has to be separated into fractions to be useful. How is this done?


Describe why NaCl has a high melting point


What are the relative charges of the proton, neutron and electron?


Polyester is a common polymer used in clothing. State the name of the chemical reaction used to form polyester by reaction of ethanedioic acid and ethane-1,2-diol. Give the name of the molecule which is lost upon condensation of these two molecules.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning