What is the generic outer electron configuration for the alkali metals?

ns1

ns1

1H is 1s1
3Li is 1s2 2s1
11Na is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s1
19K is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 4s1
etc.

I know this isnt a part of the problem but if the question is asking for alkaline earth metals. the answer should be ns2

The alkali metals are a group of elements in the periodic table that include lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr). The generic outer electron configuration for alkali metals is ns^1, where "n" represents the energy level of the outermost shell, and "s^1" indicates that there is only one electron in the s orbital of the outermost shell.

To find the generic outer electron configuration of alkali metals, you can use the periodic table. Locate the alkali metal group, which is the first group in the periodic table. The number on top of the column represents the energy level of the outermost shell, which is n = 2 for lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, and cesium. For francium, which is an exception, it is n = 7 as it is located in the seventh period.

Next, look for the subshell in the outermost shell that contains the electrons. In the case of alkali metals, it is the s subshell. Since there is only one electron in the outermost shell for all alkali metals, the electron configuration is ns^1.

So, the generic outer electron configuration for alkali metals is ns^1.