Which of the following is an alkaline earth metal? This question often puzzles many individuals, especially those who are new to the field of chemistry. Alkaline earth metals are a group of elements that are characterized by their shiny, silvery appearance and their ability to react with water to produce hydrogen gas. In this article, we will explore the properties of alkaline earth metals and help you identify which of the given options is an alkaline earth metal.
Alkaline earth metals are located in Group 2 of the periodic table, which is also known as the alkaline earth metal group. This group consists of six elements: beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra). These elements have two valence electrons in their outermost shell, which makes them highly reactive and eager to lose these electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
Now, let’s address the main question: which of the following is an alkaline earth metal? The options may include elements such as lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), francium (Fr), scandium (Sc), yttrium (Y), and lanthanum (La). To determine which of these elements is an alkaline earth metal, we need to look at their positions in the periodic table.
Lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), and cesium (Cs) are all alkali metals, which are located in Group 1 of the periodic table. Francium (Fr) is also an alkali metal, although it is radioactive and has a very short half-life. Scandium (Sc), yttrium (Y), and lanthanum (La) are all transition metals, which are found in Groups 3 to 12 of the periodic table.
The remaining element, beryllium (Be), is the only alkaline earth metal among the options provided. Beryllium is a soft, grayish metal that is relatively rare in nature. It has a melting point of 1287 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 2970 degrees Celsius. Beryllium is also known for its high thermal conductivity and its ability to absorb neutrons, making it useful in nuclear reactors.
In conclusion, the alkaline earth metal among the given options is beryllium (Be). It is essential to understand the properties and characteristics of alkaline earth metals to distinguish them from other elements in the periodic table. By familiarizing yourself with the properties of these metals, you will be better equipped to answer questions like “which of the following is an alkaline earth metal?” in the future.
