Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · CHEMISTRY · Section
Explaining the increase in reactivity
19 practice questions
Practice questions
1–3 of 3 · Hard
Question 1
2 marks · Hard
Answer and see the solution →Explain, in terms of their electronic configurations, why a rubidium atom loses its outer electron more easily than a sodium atom.
Question 2
5 marks · Hard
Answer and see the solution →(a)[1 mark]State the electronic configuration of a potassium atom.
(b)[2 marks]Using the electronic configurations, compare the positions of the outer electrons in sodium and potassium atoms.
(c)[2 marks]Explain, with reference to their atomic structure, why potassium reacts more vigorously with water than sodium does.
Question 3
2 marks · Hard
Answer and see the solution →Why is the outer electron in a caesium atom less strongly attracted to the nucleus than in a lithium atom? Give two reasons.