What are group 1 elements called?

Group 1 elements are referred to as alkali metals. This classification includes elements like lithium, sodium, and potassium, which share common properties such as being highly reactive and having one electron in their outer shell. The presence of this single electron makes them eager to lose that electron and form positive ions, a characteristic trait of alkali metals.

In terms of their reactivity, alkali metals react vigorously with water to produce hydrogen gas and hydroxides, contributing to strong alkaline solutions. This group showcases a distinct trend in physical and chemical properties, including increasing reactivity as you move down the group.

Understanding the significance of their placement in the periodic table also highlights their unique position as highly reactive metals, unlike transition metals, which are found in the central block and exhibit different properties. Alkali earth metals, found in group 2, and noble gases, located in group 18, also have distinct characteristics that further differentiate them from alkali metals. Thus, recognizing the proper classification is key in studying their behavior and applications in chemistry.