Considered silver soft metals with less metallic character than the Alkali Metals (Group 1).
Their valence shell has 2 electrons, losing to form an oxidation state [tex]+2[/tex] (forming divalent cations) and, therefore, present in metallic and ionic bonds.
They have low electronegativity and low ionization energy, tending to lose electrons to achieve a stable configuration. They are also low on melting points and density.
Alkali Earth Metals are very reactive, less reactive than Alkali Metals, and are good conductors of electricity.
Explanation:
Group 2 - Alkaline Earth Metals
Form alkaline solutions in water and are found naturally in the earth, this is the reason for the name.
Included: Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium and Radium.
