Representative metals

Definition

Representative metals, also known as main-group metals, are elements found in groups 1 and 2 of the periodic table. They exhibit predictable chemical properties and are essential for understanding periodic trends.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Group 1 representative metals are called alkali metals, and Group 2 metals are called alkaline earth metals.
2. Alkali metals (Group 1) are highly reactive and readily lose one electron to form $+1$ ions.
3. Alkaline earth metals (Group 2) are less reactive than alkali metals but still react easily, typically losing two electrons to form $+2$ ions.
4. Representative metals have low ionization energies and low electronegativities compared to nonmetals.
5. These elements often have high thermal and electrical conductivity due to their metallic bonding.

Review Questions

Related terms

Alkali Metals:

Highly reactive elements in Group 1 of the periodic table that readily lose one electron to form $+1$ ions.

Alkaline Earth Metals: Elements in Group 2 of the periodic table that lose two electrons to form $+2$ ions and are less reactive than alkali metals.

Ionization Energy:

The amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or ion in its gaseous state.