Group-1 Elements: The Alkali Metals
Chapter Name : The S- Block Elements |
Sub Topic Code : 102_11_10_02_07 |
Topic Name : Group-1 Elements: The Alkali Metals |
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Sub Topic Name : Uses |
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Introduction
• Lithium metal is used to make useful alloys. • For example with lead to make ‘white metal’ bearings for motor engines. • Lithium alloy with aluminium to make aircraft parts. • It is used in thermonuclear reactions. Lithium is also used to make electrochemical cells. • Liquid sodium metal is used as a coolant in fast breeder nuclear reactors. • Potassium has a vital role in biological systems. • Potassium chloride is used as a fertilizer. • Cesium is used in devising photoelectric cells.
Pre-Requisites:
Alkali metals, periodic table, s-block
Activity:
Nerve impulse conduction, Sodium is a primary ingredient of common salt.
Real Life Question:
How do nerve impulses work?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Alkali metals | • Group 1 elements. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| needle | Prick your finger with a needle lightly. See how the nerve impulse travels through and reaches the brain detecting pain. Sodium calcium and Potassium ions play a major role in nerve impulse conduction. |
Real life uses :
Nerve impulse conduction.
Places to visit :
Kitchen.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| salt | Salt contains sodium. |
What you learn in Theory:
• Lithium metal is used to make useful alloys. • For example with lead to make ‘white metal’ bearings for motor engines. • Lithium alloy with aluminium to make aircraft parts. • It is used in thermonuclear reactions. Lithium is also used to make electrochemical cells. • Liquid sodium metal is used as a coolant in fast breeder nuclear reactors. • Potassium has a vital role in biological systems. • Potassium chloride is used as a fertilizer. • Cesium is used in devising photoelectric cells.
What you learn in Practice:
• The alkali metals have a variety of uses.