Metals

Question 2 • GA-GSE Physical Science A

Elements are organized on the periodic table based on their properties. Which statement correctly predicts and explains the chemical reactivity of two different metals?

Answer

Barium (Ba) is less reactive than calcium (Ca) because the valence electrons in calcium atoms are farther from the nuclei and harder to remove.

Strontium (Sr) is more reactive than magnesium (Mg) because the valence electrons in strontium atoms are farther from the nuclei and harder to remove.

Rubidium (Rb) is more reactive than sodium (Na) because the valence electrons in sodium atoms are closer to the nuclei and easier to remove.

Lithium (Li) is less reactive than potassium (K) because the valence electrons in lithium atoms are closer to the nuclei and harder to remove.

Explanation

For metals in Group 1, reactivity increases down the group because the outer electron is farther from the nucleus and easier to remove. Lithium is above potassium, so lithium is less reactive; its valence electron is closer to the nucleus and held more strongly. Thus D correctly describes the trend.

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