Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Alkali metals are a group of elements in the periodic table that include lithium, sodium, potassium, and others. They are known for their reactivity and ability to readily lose one electron to form a +1 cation.
Related terms
Ionic bond: An ionic bond is formed when one atom transfers electrons to another atom, resulting in the formation of ions with opposite charges.
Periodic table: The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of elements based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties.
Reactivity: Reactivity refers to how likely an element or compound is to undergo a chemical reaction. It is influenced by factors such as electron configuration and electronegativity.