Final answer:
The family name of elements in the second group is called “alkaline earth metals.” They are known for forming alkaline solutions when their compounds dissolve in water, and include elements such as calcium and magnesium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The family name of elements in the second group on the periodic table is called alkaline earth metals. These elements have two electrons in their outermost shell, and when their compounds dissolve in water they form alkaline (basic) solutions, which is where they get their name. The elements in this group include beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra), all of which share similar chemical properties.
Alkaline Earth Metals
As part of the main group or representative elements, which includes groups 1, 2, and 13-18 of the periodic table, alkaline earth metals are distinguished from transition metals (groups 3-12), and inner transition metals such as the lanthanides and actinides. In naming the groups, traditional and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) group numbers are often mentioned. For instance, you might see group 2 referred to as group IIA in older nomenclature.