Alkaline earth metals6 elements · group 2
The alkaline earth metals make up group 2: beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium and radium. They have two outer electrons and form 2+ ions. They are harder, denser and less reactive than the alkali metals, but still too reactive to be found free in nature. Their oxides were once called 'earths', and dissolve in water to give alkaline solutions. Calcium and magnesium are essential to living things.
# Properties of alkaline earth metals
- Two valence electrons (ns²)
- Form 2+ ions in compounds
- Burn with characteristic flame colours (strontium red, barium green)
- Found in minerals such as limestone, dolomite and gypsum
- Reactivity increases down the group
# List of alkaline earth metals
# Alkaline earth metals FAQ
Which elements are alkaline earth metals?
There are 6 alkaline earth metals in this table: Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, Radium.
Where are the alkaline earth metals on the periodic table?
The alkaline earth metals are found in group 2, the second column from the left.
What are the properties of alkaline earth metals?
Two valence electrons (ns²); Form 2+ ions in compounds; Burn with characteristic flame colours (strontium red, barium green); Found in minerals such as limestone, dolomite and gypsum; Reactivity increases down the group.