ALKALINE METAL Meaning and
Definition
-
Alkaline metals refer to a group of elements found in the periodic table, constituting Group 1 (IA) elements. These metals include lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr). The term "alkaline" is derived from the basic or alkaline nature of the compounds these elements form when reacting with water.
Alkaline metals are known for their characteristic properties. They are highly reactive and tend to readily lose their outermost electron, leading to the formation of a +1 charge cation. As a result, they possess a single valence electron in their outermost electronic shell, making them excellent reducing agents.
Furthermore, alkaline metals display a low density, luster, and are highly malleable and ductile. They have a silver-like appearance and are soft enough to be easily cut with a knife. Since these metals have low ionization energies and electronegativities, they possess a low melting and boiling point.
Alkaline metals are also highly reactive with nonmetals and can form various compounds, including oxides, hydroxides, and halides. When exposed to water, they react exothermically, producing an alkaline solution and evolving hydrogen gas.
Due to their reactivity, alkaline metals are commonly found in ionic compounds, most notably in minerals such as halite (sodium chloride) or sylvite (potassium chloride). Additionally, they are frequently utilized in a wide range of applications, including battery technology, nuclear reactors, and the manufacture of soaps, fertilizers, and various alloys.
Common Misspellings for ALKALINE METAL
- zlkaline metal
- slkaline metal
- wlkaline metal
- qlkaline metal
- akkaline metal
- apkaline metal
- aokaline metal
- aljaline metal
- almaline metal
- allaline metal
- aloaline metal
- alialine metal
- alkzline metal
- alksline metal
- alkwline metal
- alkqline metal
- alkakine metal
- alkapine metal
- alkaoine metal
Etymology of ALKALINE METAL
The word "alkaline" comes from the Arabic word "al-qalī" or "al-qili", meaning "ashes of the saltwort plant". The Arabic term was later translated into Latin as "alcali". In the field of chemistry, the term "alkaline" is used to describe substances with a pH higher than 7.
The word "metal" derives from the Greek word "metallon", which initially referred to substances like mine, quarry, or anything underground. Over time, the term "metallon" specifically came to represent malleable substances, including metals.
When it comes to the specific term "alkaline metal", the combination of "alkaline" and "metal" denotes metals that are part of the alkali metal group in the periodic table. These metals include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium.
Similar spelling words for ALKALINE METAL
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
