What is the name of the family of metallic elements in group 2 that are harder and less reactive than group 1 elements?

• A. Alkaline earth metals
• B. Alkali metals
• C. Corrosive
• D. Combustible

Answer: (A)

This question tests your knowledge of the Group 2 metals and how their properties compare to the Group 1 metals. The family in Group 2 is called the alkaline earth metals. They are harder and less reactive than the alkali metals in Group 1 because they have higher ionization energies and form 2+ ions, which leads to more robust bonding and slower, less vigorous reactions. Examples include beryllium, magnesium, calcium, and the others in that group.

The other options aren’t proper names for a metal family: alkali metals describe Group 1 elements, while corrosive and combustible describe properties, not a metal family.