Alkali metals are a group of elements found in the first column of the periodic table. This group includes lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium. They are known for being highly reactive, especially with water, and they tend to lose one electron easily, which makes them good conductors of electricity. These metals are soft and can be cut with a knife. When they react with water, they produce hydrogen gas and a strong alkaline solution, hence the name "alkali." Due to their reactivity, alkali metals are usually stored in oil to prevent them from reacting with moisture in the air.