[natko]

Hi,

What does it mean to call Hydrogen the standard? Why is it included in the activity series for comparison?

Why are alkali metals so reactive and gold so unreactive (looking for an electronic reason)?

Thanks for your help in advance!

[arealperson]

I'll do the best I can with these..

Why are alkali metals so reactive and gold so unreactive (looking for an electronic reason)?

This has to do with the number of electrons in the outer shell. the "valence" shell
And, also the energy levels at which they are at. Gold is very different in this
than the other "alkali metals".

I would look up, how electrons transfer between atoms of all these types, and there properties.
That will give you reasons why.

good luck