ALKALI MET´AL
\ˈalkəlˌa͡ɪ mˈɛtə͡l], \ˈalkəlˌaɪ mˈɛtəl], \ˈa_l_k_ə_l_ˌaɪ m_ˈɛ_t_əl]\
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One of a group of metallic elements comprising sodium, potassium, lithium, rubidium, and cesium. They are all univalent, and are distinguished by the strong basic properties of the oxids and the solubility of their salts in water. The radicle ammonium, (NH4), is often included in this group on account of the similarity of its reactions and the isomorphism of its salts with those of the metals of this class.
By Smith Ely Jelliffe
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Snake's-head
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