Question

Electronic configuration of metal A is 2,8,1. Electronic configuration of metal B is 2,8,8,2. Which of the above metals is more reactive? Explain with reason.

Answer 1

1. Metal A with electronic configuration of (2, 8, 1) is sodium (Na).
2. Metal B with electronic configuration of (2, 8, 8, 2) is calcium (Ca).
3. Metal A is more reactive than B as it has to lose only one electron from the outermost shell while metal B has to lose two electrons, to achieve a stable electronic configuration.