The Group 1 metals become more reactive going down the group. What is the main reason?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The outer electron is further out and is lost more easily
- Step 1: Group 1 atoms each lose one outer electron to react.
- Step 2: Down the group there are more shells, so the outer electron is further from the nucleus and is lost more easily.
Answer
The outer electron is further out and is lost more easily.
Why not the others: The atoms have fewer outer electrons: all Group 1 atoms have one outer electron. The nucleus has a smaller positive charge: the nuclear charge increases down the group. The atoms get smaller: the atoms get larger down the group.
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