What is group 2 in the periodic table

Group 2 contains beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium. These elements are called the alkaline earth metals. Their neutral atoms have an outer s² configuration in the common introductory description.

Meaning and context

The two outer electrons help explain why a +2 oxidation state is common in their compounds. This is a pattern, not a claim that every element behaves identically in every reaction. Size, ionization energy, and other properties vary down the group.

Examples and usage

Magnesium and calcium are familiar examples, but their compounds have different properties from the pure metals. Naming an element’s group does not identify the behavior of a substance containing it.

What to check

Keep group number and period number separate: a group runs vertically and a period horizontally. A group-level overview is useful for comparison, while actual reactivity and safe handling require information about the specific material.

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