Eli5: Why are Group 1 Metals the most Reactive
In: Chemistry
The Group 1 metals have an outermost electron shell that has only a single electron in it, and they *REALLY* do not like that. They want to dump that electron anywhere they can so that the next shell in, which is full on Group 1, becomes the outermost shell. Full electron shells are like shields, and are VERY difficult to interactand react with.
Its like covering a Jawbreaker in a layer of powdered candy. That outer layer with its single electron will come off quite easily (and make a mess in doing so) but the jawbreaker (and its complete next shell) is much much harder to get into.
Conversely, the Group 17 elements (Fluorine, Chlorine, etc) have all space except for 1 electron in their outer shell filled, and they ***really REALLY*** want that outer shell filled. They do not care where they get it, they just want it. Its why Fluorine is so reactive; under the right conditions it can set just about anything on fire.
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