S-Block Elements Revision Q&A S-Block Elements (Alkali and Alkaline Earth Metals) Revision Q&A 1. Why are alkali metals highly reactive? Due to their low ionization energy and tendency to lose their single valence electron to form M+ ions easily. 2. What is the general electronic configuration of alkali metals? ns 1 where n = 1 to 7 for Li to Cs. 3. Why is lithium different from other alkali metals? Lithium shows anomalous behavior due to its small size, high ionization enthalpy, and high polarizing power. 4. Describe the trend in atomic and ionic radii in alkali metals. Both atomic and ionic radii increase down the group from Li to Cs. 5. How do alkali metals react with water? Write a general reaction. Alkali metals react vigorously with water to form hydroxides and hydrogen gas: 2M + 2H 2 O → 2MOH + H 2 . 6. What type of oxides do alkali metals form? Alkali metals form peroxides (e.g., Na 2 O 2 ), superoxides (e.g., KO 2 ), and normal oxide...