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

2187 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the 2 methods used to manufacture ethanol? What are the advantages and disadvantages of both?


Describe how ethanol can be produced from ethene


What are the components of an atom and what are their properties?


Describe the difference between ionic and covalent bonds


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences