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Multiple Choice
Which two groups of elements are generally considered the most reactive on the periodic table?
A
Group 11 (coinage metals) and Group 12 (zinc group)
B
Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 17 (halogens)
C
Group 2 (alkaline earth metals) and Group 18 (noble gases)
D
Group 13 (boron group) and Group 14 (carbon group)
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the reactivity of elements in the periodic table is largely influenced by their electron configurations, especially the number of valence electrons.
Recall that Group 1 elements (alkali metals) have a single valence electron, which they tend to lose easily to achieve a stable electron configuration, making them highly reactive.
Recognize that Group 17 elements (halogens) have seven valence electrons and tend to gain one electron to complete their octet, which also makes them very reactive.
Note that other groups like Group 11 (coinage metals) and Group 12 (zinc group) are less reactive because their valence electrons are more stable and not easily lost or gained.
Conclude that the two most reactive groups are Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 17 (halogens) due to their strong tendencies to lose or gain electrons, respectively.