Why do group 1 elements get more reactive as you go down the group?

The atoms are composed of a positive nucleus surrounded by negative electrons. In order to ionically bond, each group 1 element wants to lose its outer electron to whatever it is going to bond to, eg Cl. As you go down the group, each element has more and more layers of electrons between the inner positive nucleus and the outer negative electron. This increases the shielding, so there is less attraction between the outer electron and the nucleus, meaning as you go down the group it is easier for the elements to lose their outer electron and therefore react.

Answered by Tutor598463 D. Chemistry tutor

1769 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What effect will increased temperature have on an equilibrium with a forward reaction which is exothermic?


Please describe an Ionic Bond


Why don't atoms have an overall charge?


Describe the difference between bonding in ionic structures and covalent molecules


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences