📚 Learning Guide
Alkali Metals
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Which of the following statements correctly describes the properties of potassium (K), an alkali metal in Group 1 of the periodic table?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Potassium is a gas at room temperature.

B

Potassium reacts vigorously with water to produce potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.

C

Potassium has a higher melting point than sodium.

D

Potassium is less reactive than lithium.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

Potassium is a very soft, silvery metal that is highly reactive, especially with water. When it touches water it reacts vigorously, producing hydrogen gas and a strong alkaline solution. Because it has only one valence electron, it easily loses that electron to form a +1 ion, giving it the same chemical behavior as other alkali metals. For example, a small piece of potassium dropped into a glass of water splashes and fizzles as hydrogen bubbles appear. This reactivity and tendency to form K⁺ ions are the defining features of potassium.

Detailed Explanation

Potassium is a soft, silver‑grey metal that reacts very fast when it touches water. Other options are incorrect because Many people think metals can be gases because they hear the word "metal." In reality, potassium is a solid at room temperature, like most metals; A common mistake is that heavier elements always melt at higher temperatures.

Key Concepts

Group 1 elements
potassium (K)
Topic

Alkali Metals

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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