P9+-+Alkali+Metals


 * The Alkali Elements **

The alkali elements are group 1a and the 1st column of the Periodic Table of Elements. The alkali elements are solids (metals). They consist of seven elements. Hydrogen (H1), Lithium (Li3), Sodium (Na11), Potassium (K19), Rubidium (Rb37), Cesium (Cs55), and Francium (Fr87) are all of the alkali elements.
 * Chemical Properties **

Three chemical properties of the alkali metals are that they react with water and release hydrogen. In the air they also react by covering their surface using oxides. Lastly, the alkali metals react with hydrogen, which form hydrides. Three physical properties of the alkali metals are that they are soft. They also have a low melting point and boiling point. Basically every alkali metal is silver, except for Francium which is a mix of red and brown. There are many interesting facts about the alkali metals. They react very easily because they only have one electron on their outer shell. Secondly, since they are very reactive, none of the elements are in wildlife or nature. Lastly, although they are considered metals, the alkali metals can tarnish very easily. There are also common uses for the alkali metals. One of the elements is lithium. Lithium stearate is combined with oil and creates all-purpose and hot lubricants. Also, the element sodium, when it is combined with chlorine, creates salt. The alkali elements are one of the most important and interesting groups of elements throughout The Periodic Table of Elements.
 * Physical Properties **
 * Interesting Facts **
 * Common Uses **
 * Sources Cited **

1. Dingle, Adrian. The Periodic Table - Elements with Style! Vol. N/A. Boston, Massachusetts: Melissa Fairley, 2007. Print. 2. Nave, R. "Alkali Metals." N/A. Georgia State University, 2005. Web. 26 Oct. 2009. []. 3. The Periodic table of the Elements. Digital Image. N/A. N/A. Web. 26 Oct. 2009. [[[] ]]. 4. "Chemistry Quick Facts - Alkali Metals." Patent-Ivent.com. 2006-2007. Web. 26 Oct. 2009. [].

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