Interaction of Bases with Metals
Metallic elements react differently with bases depending on their reactivity. Here is a detailed explanation of how bases react with metals:

Alkali Metals (Group 1)
- Alkali metals, such as sodium and potassium, react vigorously with bases to form ionic salts.
- The reaction typically involves the metal displacing hydrogen from the hydroxide ion in the base, resulting in the formation of a metal hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
- For example, when sodium reacts with a base like sodium hydroxide, it forms sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.

Alkaline Earth Metals (Group 2)
- Alkaline earth metals, such as calcium and magnesium, also react with bases to form metal hydroxides.
- The reaction is less vigorous compared to alkali metals, but still produces metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas.
- For example, when calcium reacts with a base like calcium hydroxide, it forms calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.

Transition Metals
- Transition metals do not react with bases as readily as alkali and alkaline earth metals.
- Some transition metals may form insoluble metal hydroxides when reacted with bases, but the reactions are usually slow and limited.
- For example, iron can react with bases to form iron hydroxide, which may precipitate out of solution.
In conclusion, the reaction of bases with metals results in the formation of metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas, with the reactivity of the metal determining the extent and speed of the reaction.