Which term refers to the family of metallic elements in group 2 that are harder and less reactive than group 1?

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Multiple Choice

Which term refers to the family of metallic elements in group 2 that are harder and less reactive than group 1?

Explanation:
The group of metallic elements in group 2 is called alkaline earth metals. These metals sit in the second column of the periodic table and share two key features: they are harder than the alkali metals in group 1, and they are less reactive. This reduced reactivity comes from having two valence electrons that they tend to lose to form a 2+ ion, which takes more energy than losing just one electron. Their oxides are alkaline when dissolved in water, which is why the term “alkaline earth” fits. Physically, stronger metallic bonding in these elements also contributes to their greater hardness. So, the best term for this family is alkaline earth metals.

The group of metallic elements in group 2 is called alkaline earth metals. These metals sit in the second column of the periodic table and share two key features: they are harder than the alkali metals in group 1, and they are less reactive. This reduced reactivity comes from having two valence electrons that they tend to lose to form a 2+ ion, which takes more energy than losing just one electron. Their oxides are alkaline when dissolved in water, which is why the term “alkaline earth” fits. Physically, stronger metallic bonding in these elements also contributes to their greater hardness. So, the best term for this family is alkaline earth metals.

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