Asked in PMC Practice Test 10 (2021) 2021Moderate

The group one elements are named as alkali metals because?

Correct answer: C. Both a & b

  • A. Their oxides are basic
  • B. Their oxides and hydroxides are water-soluble and form alkaline solutions in water
  • C. Both a & b
  • D. They are found in the earth

Explanation

Option A: Their oxides are basic: This option refers to the fact that alkali metals form oxides that have basic properties. When alkali metals react with oxygen, they produce metal oxides that exhibit basic characteristics. These oxides can react with water to form alkaline solutions. Option B: Their oxides and hydroxides are water-soluble and form alkaline solutions in water: This option highlights another characteristic of alkali metals. Not only are their oxides basic, but their hydroxides (formed when alkali metals react with water) are highly soluble in water. The dissolution of their hydroxides in water results in the formation of alkaline (basic) solutions. Option C: The group one elements, also known as alkali metals, are named as such because their oxides (compounds formed when these metals react with oxygen) are basic in nature. Additionally, their hydroxides (compounds formed when these metals react with water) are highly water-soluble and form alkaline solutions in water. Therefore, both of these properties contribute to the name "alkali metals." Option D: They are found in the Earth: This option is incorrect. While it is true that alkali metals are found in the Earth's crust, this is not the primary reason they are named alkali metals. The name "alkali metals" primarily refers to their chemical properties.

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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.

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