alkali metal

A metal whose hydrate is an alkali. The alkali metals are all monatomic, oxidise in the air, and decompose water at ordinary temperatures. They are pota ium, sodium, lithium, cæsium, and rubidium. alkali-works, s . pl . Manufactories where alkali is prepared. Also applied to those in which carbonate of sodium is manufactured from common salt, by converting it into sulphate of sodium through the action of sulphuric acid, and roasting the sulphate of sodium with a mixture of chalk and coal-dust. Alkali works are regulated by Acts of Parliament, 26 and 27 Vict., c. 120, and 31 and 32 Vict., c. 36.