GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Detailed explanation-1: -The alkali metals are six chemical elements in Group 1, the leftmost column in the periodic table. They are lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr).

Detailed explanation-2: -The name comes from the fact that when these metals or their oxides are dissolved in water, a basic (alkaline) solution results. Because the alkali metals are very reactive, they are seldom (if ever) found in their elemental form in nature, and are usually found as ionic compounds (except for hydrogen).

Detailed explanation-3: -Group 1 elements include the alkali metals, Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr. The alkali metals are all soft, shiny and metallic when cut. They react easily with water, have low melting points and densities, and are good conductors of electricity.

Detailed explanation-4: -Group one elements share common characteristics. They are all soft, silver metals. Due to their low ionization energy, these metals have low melting points and are highly reactive. The reactivity of this family increases as you move down the table.

Detailed explanation-5: -Group 1 elements are called alkali metals because their oxides are soluble in water and group 2 elements are called alkaline earth metals as their oxides form in the earth and are water soluble.