Where on the periodic table are the most active metals typically located?

• A. In Group 1 (alkali metals) on the far left side
• B. In the center among the transition metals
• C. At the top of the periodic table
• D. In Group 18 (noble gases) on the far right side

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the activity of metals refers to how readily they lose electrons to form positive ions, which is related to their chemical reactivity.
2. Recall that metals on the periodic table are generally found on the left and center, with nonmetals on the right side.
3. Recognize that Group 1 elements, known as alkali metals, have a single electron in their outermost shell, making them highly reactive and the most active metals.
4. Note that transition metals in the center are less reactive compared to alkali metals because they have more complex electron configurations and higher ionization energies.
5. Remember that noble gases in Group 18 are inert and nonreactive, and metals at the top of the table are not necessarily the most active; reactivity trends increase down a group for metals.