Exploring the chemical reactivity of Group 2 elements reveals their tendency to form +2 cations and engage in redox reactions. These alkaline earth metals, including Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, and Radium, increase in reactivity down the periodic table. Their interactions with water, oxygen, and chlorine are crucial for various applications, from construction materials to medical imaging. The practical uses of these metals in industries such as automotive, electronics, and healthcare highlight their significance in everyday life.
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Group 2 elements, also known as the alkaline earth metals, comprise Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium (Ba), and Radium (Ra)
Atomic Size
An increase in atomic size down the group diminishes the nucleus-electron attraction, enhancing reactivity
Ionization Energy
Ionization energy decreases for the same group due to the additional electron shells that provide increased shielding, making electron removal less energy-intensive
Electronic Configuration
The electronic configuration, with two electrons in the outermost s orbital, predisposes these elements to adopt a +2 oxidation state
The reactivity of Group 2 metals is intrinsically linked to redox reactions, where oxidation and reduction transpire concurrently
The reactivity of Group 2 metals has been harnessed for a multitude of industrial and commercial applications, such as in the production of cement, glass, and dietary supplements
In the medical field, Magnesium compounds are employed as antacids and laxatives, and Barium Sulphate is used in radiographic imaging
The reactivity of Group 2 metals plays a significant role in daily life, often in unnoticed ways, such as in the production of lightweight components and in baking powder for leavening baked goods
00
The ______ ______ metals include elements like Beryllium and Magnesium, which are known for forming cations with a ______ charge.
alkaline earth
+2
01
Group 2 reactivity trend with atomic size
Increases down the group as larger atoms weaken nucleus-electron attraction, boosting reactivity.
02
Ionization energy trend in Group 2
Decreases down the group due to more electron shells and greater shielding, easing electron removal.
