Which of the following is the most reactive alkali metal? (2019)

Which of the following is the most reactive alkali metal? (2019)

Step 1: Understand what alkali metals are. Alkali metals are found in Group 1 of the periodic table and include Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and others.
Step 2: Know that reactivity in alkali metals increases as you move down the group. This is because the atomic size increases and the outer electron is further from the nucleus.
Step 3: Compare the atomic sizes of Lithium, Sodium, and Potassium. Potassium is larger than Sodium, which is larger than Lithium.
Step 4: Recognize that larger atomic size means the outer electron is less tightly held by the nucleus, making it easier to lose that electron.
Step 5: Understand that losing an electron is what makes an alkali metal reactive. The easier it is to lose the electron, the more reactive the metal is.
Step 6: Conclude that since Potassium (K) has a larger atomic size and lower ionization energy compared to Sodium (Na) and Lithium (Li), it is the most reactive alkali metal.

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