NEETChemistrys Block Elements
What is the primary reason for the low melting and boiling points of alkali metals?
Options
- AStrong metallic bonding
- BHigh number of valence electrons
- CWeak metallic bonding due to a single valence electron
- DPresence of multiple valence electrons
Correct answer
C. Weak metallic bonding due to a single valence electron
Step-by-step solution
The low melting and boiling points of alkali metals can be attributed to their weak metallic bonding, which is primarily due to the presence of only a single valence electron in each atom. This single valence electron experiences relatively weak forces of attraction to the positively charged metal ions, leading to lower melting and boiling points.