Multiple Choice
Which group of the periodic table contains the most reactive metals?
2
views
2. Atoms & Elements
Periodic Table: Group Names
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which two groups on the periodic table are considered the most reactive?
A
Group 2 (alkaline earth metals) and Group 18 (noble gases)
B
Group 14 (carbon group) and Group 15 (pnictogens)
C
Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 17 (halogens)
D
Group 3 (boron group) and Group 16 (chalcogens)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that reactivity in the periodic table is often related to how easily elements gain or lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically a full outer shell.
Group 1 elements (alkali metals) have a single electron in their outermost shell, which they tend to lose easily, making them highly reactive metals.
Group 17 elements (halogens) have seven electrons in their outermost shell and tend to gain one electron to complete their octet, making them highly reactive nonmetals.
Compare the reactivity trends: alkali metals are very reactive because they readily lose one electron, and halogens are very reactive because they readily gain one electron.
Conclude that the most reactive groups on the periodic table are Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 17 (halogens) due to their strong tendencies to lose or gain electrons, respectively.
5:33mWatch next
Master Periodic Table: Group Names with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Periodic Table: Group Names practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations