Which statement accurately describes alkali metals?

Which statement accurately describes alkali metals?

• A. They are noble gases
• B. They have 1 valence electron
• C. They have 2 valence electrons
• D. They have 3+ cations

Answer: (B)

Alkali metals are the elements in Group 1 that have a single electron in their outermost shell. That one valence electron is easily lost, so they form ions with a +1 charge (M+). This explains their high reactivity and why they are metals, not inert gases. The idea of two valence electrons would fit Group 2 (alkaline earth metals), not alkali metals, and forming three-plus cations is not typical for them. So having one valence electron is the best description.

Alkali metals are the elements in Group 1 that have a single electron in their outermost shell. That one valence electron is easily lost, so they form ions with a +1 charge (M+). This explains their high reactivity and why they are metals, not inert gases. The idea of two valence electrons would fit Group 2 (alkaline earth metals), not alkali metals, and forming three-plus cations is not typical for them. So having one valence electron is the best description.