Question

which pair of words correctly completes the statement?
alkali metals are highly ____ since they ____ easily to form ions.
○ nonreactive; lose 1 electron
○ nonreactive; lose 2 electrons
○ reactive; gain 1 electron
○ reactive; lose 1 electron

Explanation:

Alkali metals (Group 1 elements) have 1 valence electron. They are highly reactive because they can easily lose this 1 electron to achieve a stable electron configuration (similar to noble gases). Losing electrons is a characteristic of metals in chemical reactions. Non - reactive is incorrect as alkali metals react readily (e.g., with water). Gaining electrons is not typical for metals (they usually lose electrons), and losing 2 electrons is not relevant as they have only 1 valence electron.

Answer:

reactive, lose 1 electron