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Second ionization potential of alkali metals are very high due to_______________?

Correct answer: B. inert gas configurations

  • A. being s-block elements
  • B. inert gas configurations
  • C. ns1 electronic configuration
  • D. being metals

Explanation

An alkali metal has the outer configuration ns1, so removal of its first electron produces a stable noble-gas configuration. Removing a second electron would then disturb this closed shell, requiring very high ionisation energy. Students may choose ns1 electronic configuration, but the more direct reason is the resulting inert-gas configuration after the first ionisation.

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About Reactions of Group I Elements

Group I elements have one valence electron, so their reactivity increases down the group as ionisation energy decreases. Their reactions with water, oxygen, hydrogen and halogens produce hydroxides, oxides, hydrides and halides, while the behaviour of lithium differs from the heavier metals because of its small ionic size.

Practise s-Block and p-Block Elements

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