Question

elements are organized on the periodic table based on their properties. which statement correctly predicts and explains the chemical reactivity of two different metals? barium (ba) is less reactive than calcium (ca) because the valence electrons in calcium atoms are farther from the nuclei and harder to remove. strontium (sr) is more reactive than magnesium (mg) because the valence electrons in strontium atoms are farther from the nuclei and harder to remove. rubidium (rb) is more reactive than sodium (na) because the valence electrons in sodium atoms are closer to the nuclei and easier to remove. lithium (li) is less reactive than potassium (k) because the valence electrons in lithium atoms are closer to the nuclei and harder to remove.

Explanation:

The reactivity of metals is related to how easily they can lose valence - electrons. Valence electrons that are farther from the nucleus are easier to remove, making the element more reactive. For example, in the alkali metals group, as you go down the group, the atomic radius increases, and the valence electrons are farther from the nucleus, so reactivity increases. Similarly, for alkaline - earth metals.

Answer:

Rubidium (Rb) is more reactive than sodium (Na) because the valence electrons in sodium atoms are closer to the nucleus and harder to remove.