Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why are alkali metals named after alkalies?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

A color-coded periodic table of the elements displays each element's symbol and atomic number, with categories such as alkali metals, noble gases, halogens, transition metals, and actinoid elements distinguished by different background colors. — alkali metal Modern version of the periodic table of the elements (printable).

The alkali metals are so named because when they react with water, they form alkalies.12

These alkalies are hydroxide compounds of the elements, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which act as strong, caustic bases capable of neutralizing acids.12