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An active metal is a metal that readily reacts with other substances, such as oxygen, water, or acids. These metals tend to lose electrons easily, which makes them highly reactive. Examples of active metals include:
Active metals are typically found on the left side of the periodic table and in the alkali and alkaline earth metal groups. They are also more likely to be found in compounds rather than in their pure metallic form due to their reactivity.
- Sodium (Na): Reacts vigorously with water and can even catch fire.
- Potassium (K): Similar to sodium, it reacts explosively with water.
- Magnesium (Mg): Reacts with acids to form hydrogen gas.
- Calcium (Ca): Reacts with water, though not as violently as sodium or potassium.
Active metals are typically found on the left side of the periodic table and in the alkali and alkaline earth metal groups. They are also more likely to be found in compounds rather than in their pure metallic form due to their reactivity.