What are the characteristics of elements found in Group 1 of the periodic table?

The elements in Group 1 of the periodic table, known as the alkali metals, have a distinct characteristic of readily forming positive ions. This occurs because they possess a single valence electron in their outermost electron shell. The tendency for these elements to lose that one valence electron allows them to achieve a stable electron configuration, similar to that of the noble gases, which have full outer shells. Consequently, when they lose this electron, they become positively charged ions, also known as cations.

For example, when sodium (Na) is involved in a reaction, it can easily lose its one valence electron to form a sodium ion (Na⁺). This behavior is a defining trait of all alkali metals, making them highly reactive and typically found in nature as compounds rather than in their elemental form.

The other options do not accurately reflect the properties of Group 1 elements. They do not form -2 ions, as they generally do not gain electrons but rather lose them. Each Group 1 element has one valence electron, so they definitely have valence electrons. Furthermore, while some Group 1 elements can exist as gases under certain conditions, they are primarily solid at room temperature (except for cesium, which melts at a