Periodic table group
Group 2
Group 2 is a vertical column of the periodic table containing Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, Radium. Elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons, which is why they show related chemical behavior. These are the alkaline earth metals. Each atom gives up its two outer s electrons to form a +2 ion, and the group's oxides and hydroxides are basic, which is where the name comes from.
At a glance
- Elements
- 6
- Atomic numbers
- 4 to 88
- Block
- s-block
- Periods
- 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Phase at STP
- solid (6)
Shared properties
- Same valence electron count, so members react in related ways
- Atomic radius increases down the group as electron shells are added
- First ionization energy generally decreases down the group
The 6 elements
Frequently asked questions
What elements are in group 2?
Group 2 contains 6 elements: Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, Radium.
What properties do group 2 elements share?
Elements in group 2 have the same number of valence electrons, so they react in related ways. Atomic radius increases down the group as electron shells are added, and first ionization energy generally decreases down the group. These are the alkaline earth metals. Each atom gives up its two outer s electrons to form a +2 ion, and the group's oxides and hydroxides are basic, which is where the name comes from.
Why are they called the alkaline earth metals?
Group 2's metals form basic (alkaline) oxides and hydroxides, which is where the family name comes from. Each atom gives up its two outer s electrons to form a +2 ion.