HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test 2026 - Free Chemistry Practice Questions and Study Guide

The group of the periodic table that has a +1 charge is Group IA, also known as the alkali metals. This group includes elements such as lithium (Li), sodium (Na), and potassium (K). These metals readily lose one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to that of noble gases. As a result of losing this electron during chemical reactions, they acquire a +1 charge.

The other groups mentioned have different typical charges. For instance, Group IIA, or the alkaline earth metals, generally have a +2 charge because they lose two valence electrons. Group IIIA tends to form +3 charged ions by losing three electrons, while Group IVA does not typically form stable ions with a fixed charge due to its ability to either gain or lose electrons in different compounds. This is what distinguishes Group IA as primarily exhibiting a +1 charge in its ionic forms.