J. D. Lee Solutions for Chapter: Group 1 - the Alkali Metals, Exercise 1: Exercise 1

Give equations to show the reactions between $\mathrm{Na}$ and ${\mathrm{O}}_2$.

Group $1$ elements generally form very soluble compounds. Name some insoluble or sparingly soluble compounds. How are these elements detected and confirmed in qualitative analysis?

Describe the characteristic colour and nature of the solutions of group $1$ metals in liquid ammonia. Give an equation to show how these solutions decompose.

Draw the crystal structures of $\mathrm{CsCl}$ and $\mathrm{NaCl}$. What is the coordination number of the metal ion in each case? Explain why these two salts adopt different structures.

Do the alkali metals form many complexes? Which of the metal ions in the group are best at forming complexes? Which are the best complexing agents?

What is a crown ether ,and what is a crypt? Draw examples of group $1$ complexes with these molecules. In what way is this type of complex of biological importance?

Which of the following methods would you use to extinguish a fire of lithium, sodium or potassium metals? Explain why some of these are unsuitable and give the reactions involved.
(a) Water
(b) Dinitrogen
(c) Carbon dioxide
(d) Asbestos blanket

The four general methods of extracting metals include thermal decomposition, displacement of one element by another, chemical reduction and electrolytic reduction. How are group$1$ metals obtained, and why are the other methods unsuitable?