Question

H, Li, Na, and K are in the same group and react similarly because of their:

a) Similar atomic masses
b) Common valence electron configuration
c) Identical ionization energies
d) Shared electronegativity values

Answer 1

H, Li, Na, and K react similarly because of their common valence electron configuration, having one electron in the outer shell, making them highly reactive alkali metals.

Step-by-step explanation:

H, Li, Na, and K react similarly because they all belong to the same group in the periodic table, which is Group 1 also known as the alkali metals group. The main reason for their similarity in reactivity is their common valence electron configuration. Each of these elements has a single electron in its outermost shell (valence shell), and it is the loss of this valence electron that primarily defines how they react chemically. These elements are characterized by having the largest atomic radii and the lowest first ionization energy within their respective periods, which makes it very easy to remove the valence electron, resulting in the formation of stable cations with a charge of 1+.

Due to similar chemical properties, they are also highly reactive and tend to form compounds in the same ratios with other elements. For instance, they all react with halogens to form ionic salts, like sodium chloride (table salt), and with water in highly exothermic reactions, leading to the formation of hydroxides. This similarity in chemical behavior is because they all have one valence electron, which they tend to lose when reacting with other elements.