Question

Based on its location on the periodic table, which metal is likely to be less reactive than both strontium and sodium?

magnesium (Mg)
barium (Ba)
cesium (Cs)
rubidium (Rb)

Answer 1

To determine which metal is likely to be less reactive than both strontium (Sr) and sodium (Na), we can examine their positions on the periodic table and their reactivity trends.

- Strontium (Sr) is an alkaline earth metal located in group 2.
- Sodium (Na) is an alkali metal located in group 1.

Alkali metals (group 1) are generally more reactive than alkaline earth metals (group 2), but within the same group, reactivity tends to increase down the group.

Now, let's analyze the options:

1. **Magnesium (Mg)**: This is also an alkaline earth metal like strontium, located in group 2 (above strontium), so it is likely **less reactive** than strontium.

2. **Barium (Ba)**: This is another alkaline earth metal in group 2, below strontium. Thus, it is likely **more reactive** than strontium.

3. **Cesium (Cs)**: This is an alkali metal in group 1, below sodium, so it is likely **more reactive** than sodium.

4. **Rubidium (Rb)**: This is also an alkali metal in group 1, below sodium, so it is likely **more reactive** than sodium.

Based on this analysis, the metal that is likely to be less reactive than both strontium and sodium is **magnesium (Mg)**.