Question

Rank these elements from most reactive to least reactive. Rb,Ca,Na,Xe

Answer 1

Both Na (3^rd period ) and Rb (5^th period ) belongs to Gr I of periodic table, thus in this context, down the group reactivity increases and hence Rb is more reactive than Na. Gr I elements (i.e.- alakli metals ) are known as the most reactive metals of periodic table. Losing one electron these alkali metals attain their nearest inert gas configuration.

On the other hand, Ca belongs to alkaline earth metal, which is less reactive than alkali metals and have to lose two electrons to rewach at noble gas configuration.

Xe being a noble gas, already having octet in its outer shell, it is highly stable and least reactive.

Thus, the reactivty order is given by,

Rb > Na > Ca > Xe