Lab 7.3 Reactivity of Metals

1.  Answer the lab question on the first page of this lab.  CITE EVIDENCE FROM YOUR OBSERVATIONS! Make sure you explain thoroughly.

2.   Why do elements in the same column on the Periodic Table tend to have VERY SIMILAR properties?  Explain in terms of electron configuration! Use specific examples from your groupings.

3.   Describe what happens when an atom of sodium atom interacts with an atom of a nonmetal.  In your description, indicate:

a.   Whether the sodium atom loses or gains electrons,

b.   Whether the sodium atom becomes a positive or negative ion,

c.   The electrical charge of the sodium ion,

d.   Which noble gas sodium’s electron configuration becomes like,

e.   Whether the sodium atom becomes more or less stable as a result of reacting.

ENRICHMENT: 

The elements Li, Na and K are too reactive to be found in nature as pure elements.  Research how chemists obtain pure sodium in the form like we used in lab.