Why does reactivity increase as you go down Group 1 metals?

An atom is made in such a way that the nucleus with the positive charges (protons) is in the centre and the negative charge (electrons) are arranged in shells around it.

All group 1 metals have one electron in its outer shell. As we go down the group, the atom gets bigger. The bigger the atom, the further away the last electron. Therefore, the attraction between the nucleus and the last electron gets weaker. This makes it easier for the atom to give up the electron which increases its reactivity. 

MP
Answered by Madhangi P. Chemistry tutor

151432 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure and bonding in Graphite?


Describe the electrons in Benzene


Calculate the enthalpy of formation of water.Is the reaction an exothermic or endothermic reaction?


25.00cm3 of sodium hydroxide was pipetted into a conical flask. It was titrated against 0.10mol/dm3 hydrochloric acid. The mean volume of acid needed was 24.00cm3. Calculate the concentration of sodium hydroxide used in the titration.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning