Question

Elements in group 2 are all called alkaline earth metals. what is most similar about the alkaline earth metals?

Option 1: how many protons and neutrons they have
Option 2: which chemical properties they have
Option 3: how many total electrons they have
Option 4: which period they are most often found in

Answer 1

Group 2 elements, or alkaline earth metals, are most similar in their chemical properties because they all have two valence electrons, which dictate their similar reactivity and compounds formed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The elements in Group 2, also known as the alkaline earth metals, are most similar in terms of which chemical properties they have. This similarity is primarily because they all have two valence electrons in their outer shell, leading to similar reactivity patterns and the formation of compounds with an oxidation state of 2+. Elements in the same group on the periodic table, like the alkaline earth metals, have similar chemical behaviors because they have the same number of valence electrons, which are key in determining how elements react with each other.