alkali metal

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Noun alkali metal has 1 sense

alkali metal, alkaline metal - any of the monovalent metals of group I of the periodic table (lithium or sodium or potassium or rubidium or cesium or francium); "the hydroxides of the alkali metals are strongly alkaline"
--₁ is a kind of metallic element, metal

Alkali Metal

Description:

An alkali metal is a group of chemical elements belonging to the group 1 of the periodic table. These metals are highly reactive and possess properties like low density, excellent conductivity, and a silvery appearance. The alkali metals include lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr).

Senses:

Sense 1 (Chemistry):

In chemistry, alkali metals are highly reactive elements that readily donate an electron to form positive ions. They are commonly found in compounds such as alkali metal hydroxides and alkali metal salts.

Example sentence: The reactivity of alkali metals increases as you move down the periodic table.

Sense 2 (Physics):

In physics, alkali metals have unique properties that make them essential in various applications. Their low work function and high photoelectric effect make them ideal for use in photocells and photodiodes.

Example sentence: The use of alkali metals in photocells has revolutionized the field of solar energy.

Sense 3 (Geology):

In geology, alkali metals can be found in minerals and rocks. For instance, lithium is often present in pegmatite deposits, while cesium and rubidium are commonly found in certain types of granite.

Example sentence: The granite rocks in this region contain significant amounts of alkali metals like cesium and rubidium.

Definitions from WordNet