What is the product of the reaction of a Group 1 metal with chlorine?

Study for the AQA GCSE Chemistry Paper 1 Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your Chemistry assessment!

The reaction between a Group 1 metal, such as lithium, sodium, or potassium, and chlorine leads to the formation of a metal chloride salt. This is because Group 1 metals are highly reactive and have a single electron in their outer shell, which they readily lose to achieve a stable electronic configuration. When they react with chlorine, which is a non-metal and requires one electron to complete its outer shell, the Group 1 metal donates its electron to chlorine.

As a result of this electron transfer, the metal ion, now positively charged, combines with the negatively charged chloride ion to form an ionic compound, specifically a metal chloride. This process occurs very readily and is a characteristic reaction of alkali metals with halogens.

In contrast, the other options refer to compounds that are not the direct products of this specific reaction between a Group 1 metal and chlorine. A metal oxide involves a metal reacting with oxygen, while a non-metal chloride does not involve any metals at all. A metal hydroxide typically forms when metals react with water or acids, which is not the case in this reaction with chlorine.

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