Why are sodium and the alkali metals so reactive? How does an atomic clock work? What do space shuttles and batteries have in common? Find out the answers to these and other fascinating questions in 'Sodium and the Alkali Metals'. This book explores how these elements and their compounds touch almost all areas of our lives, from potato chips to cosmetics to photoelectric cells. It explains the trend in reactivity going down the group, from lithium to sodium to cesium. You will learn about the characteristic color of each alkali metal that is produced by its salt when put into a flame. The important chemicals obtained from the chlor-alkali industry are also described. Other elements discussed include potassium, rubidium, and francium.