Reactivity of Alkali Metals and Reactions

Why is understanding the reactivity of metals important?

• To determine their color.

• To decide which metals to use for specific purposes.

• To predict their melting points.

• To know their density.

What is a characteristic of alkali metals?

• They are found in Group 1 of the periodic table.

• They are generally unreactive.

• They are stored in water.

• They are always shiny.

What happens when lithium reacts with water?

• It sinks and rapidly fizzes.

• It floats, moves slowly, and fizzes.

• It melts into a ball and self-ignites.

• It changes color and becomes dull.

What are the products of the reaction between lithium and water?

• Lithium oxide and oxygen.

• Lithium chloride and hydrogen.

• Lithium hydroxide and hydrogen.

• Lithium carbonate and water.

How does the reaction of sodium with water compare to lithium's reaction?

• Sodium moves slower and does not melt.

• Sodium moves quicker and melts into a ball.

• Sodium produces a different colored flame.

• Sodium does not fizz as much.

Which of the following alkali metals reacts the most vigorously with water, producing a lilac flame?

• Lithium

• Sodium

• Potassium

• Rubidium

What is the general trend in reactivity for Group 1 alkali metals as you move down the periodic table?

• Reactivity decreases.

• Reactivity increases.

• Reactivity remains constant.

• Reactivity first decreases then increases.

What is an exothermic reaction?

• A reaction that absorbs energy from the surroundings.

• A reaction that releases energy (usually heat) to the surroundings.

• A reaction that changes color.

• A reaction that produces a gas.

Which gas is produced when potassium reacts with water?

• Oxygen

• Hydrogen

• Carbon dioxide

• Nitrogen

Why are alkali metals typically stored under oil?

• To increase their reactivity

• To prevent them from reacting with air or moisture

• To make them easier to handle

• To keep them shiny