The reactivity of metals with water generally increases as you move down the alkali and alkaline earth metal groups in the periodic table. Here’s how the specified metals react with water:
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Calcium (Ca): Reacts moderately with water, forming calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is not as vigorous as with the alkali metals but is still noticeable.
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Lithium (Li): Reacts slowly with cold water, producing lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is mild compared to the other alkali metals.
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Magnesium (Mg): Reacts very slowly with cold water but will react more readily with hot water or steam, producing magnesium oxide and hydrogen gas. Overall, it is less reactive with water than calcium and the alkali metals.
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Potassium (K): Reacts very vigorously with water, producing potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is highly exothermic and can result in an explosion due to the rapid release of hydrogen gas.
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Sodium (Na): Reacts vigorously with water, producing sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is exothermic, and like potassium, it can also be explosive due to the rapid production of hydrogen gas.
In summary, the reactivity with water (from least to most vigorous) is as follows: Magnesium < Lithium < Calcium < Sodium < Potassium.
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