These include:
* Lithium (Li)
* Sodium (Na)
* Potassium (K)
* Rubidium (Rb)
* Cesium (Cs)
* Francium (Fr)
Why are they so reactive?
Alkali metals have only one electron in their outermost shell. This makes them eager to lose that electron to achieve a stable electron configuration. When they react with water, they donate this electron to a hydrogen atom in the water molecule, forming a hydroxide ion (OH-) and releasing hydrogen gas. This reaction releases a lot of energy, often causing the alkali metal to ignite and explode.
Here's a general reaction:
2M + 2H₂O → 2MOH + H₂
Where:
* M represents the alkali metal
* MOH represents the corresponding alkali metal hydroxide
Caution: Alkali metals are extremely dangerous to handle. Always use extreme caution and proper safety equipment when working with these elements.
