Alkali Metals
The alkali metals include Lithium, Sodium, Potassium, Rubidium, Cesium, and Francium.
These elements are found in group 1. These metals are also extremely reactive and do not occur freely in nature. Alkali metals are softer than most other metals. When exposed to water, these elements are known to explode. Alkali metals have distinct, colorful flames when burned. These metals have a large atomic radius and weak metallic bonding. "Alkali" comes from “al qai”, and Arabic word meaning “from ashes”. |
Individual Uses:
Lithium is often used in rechargeable batteries Sodium is used in nuclear reactors due to its low boiling point Potassium is used to produce chemicals like fertilizers Cesium is used as a catalyst in various hydrogenation organic reactions Lithium and francium have the highest and lowest boiling points, respectively Cesium and francium are the most reactive elements in this group. |