Groups 1 - The Alkali Metals

The Group 1 elements are called the alkali metals.They are placed in the vertical columns on the left-hand side of the periodic table.
Periodic table with group 1 elements highlighted: lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, ceasium, francium.

All the group 1 elements are very reactive. they must be stored under oil to keep air and water away from them. Group 1 elements form alkaline solutions when they react with water, which is why they are called alkali metals.