Question

Explain the differences in properties of alkalis and halogens.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Property	Alkalis	Halogens
1.	Nature	Alkalis are highly reactive metals.	Halogens are highly reactive non-metals.
2.	Valence electrons	Alkali metals have one electron in their outermost shell.	Halogens have seven electrons in their outermost shell.
3.	Ion formation	Alkali metals lose one electron to form positively charged ions.	Halogens gain one electron to form negatively charged ions.
4.	Physical state	Alkali metals are generally soft solids at room temperature.	Halogens exist as solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature.
5.	Reaction with water	Alkali metals react vigorously with water to form alkaline hydroxides and hydrogen gas.	Halogens do not react with water as vigorously as alkali metals do.
6.	Oxides	Alkali metals generally form basic oxides.	Halogens generally form acidic oxides.