What is the name of Group 1 on the periodic table?

• A. Transition metals
• B. Noble gases
• C. Alkaline earth metals
• D. Alkali metals

Answer: (D)

Group 1 metals are called alkali metals. They sit in the first column and have one valence electron, which makes them eager to lose that electron and form a +1 ion. That single electron drives their high reactivity, especially with water, where they fizz and react to produce hydrogen gas and a metal hydroxide. They’re typically soft and have low densities and relatively low melting points for metals. This single-electron characteristic also explains why they react so readily with other substances. They’re distinct from alkaline earth metals in Group 2, which have two valence electrons and form +2 ions; from transition metals, which are in the middle of the table and have different electron configurations; and from noble gases in Group 18, which are inert due to full valence shells. (Hydrogen is often shown near Group 1 but is not an alkali metal.)