Group 2 Elements: Trends and Properties

Questions and Answers

Why does the atomic radius of elements increase down the group?

The atomic radius increases down the group because the atoms have more shells of electrons, making the atom bigger.

What is the reason for the decrease in melting points of group 2 metals down the group?

The metallic bonding weakens as the atomic size increases, resulting in a decrease in melting points.

Why do the outermost electrons in an atom become more shielded from the attraction of the nucleus as you go down the group?

The outermost electrons become more shielded from the attraction of the nucleus due to the repulsive force of inner shell electrons.

What is the reason for the increase in reactivity of group 2 metals down the group?

The reactivity of group 2 metals increases down the group due to the decrease in ionization energy. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to remove the magnesium oxide layer from the magnesium ribbon before performing reactions?

It is necessary to remove the magnesium oxide layer because it would react with acid at a different rate than the magnesium, giving a false result. Signup and view all the answers

What is the equation for the reaction between magnesium and oxygen?

2 Mg + O2 → 2 MgO Signup and view all the answers

What is the physical appearance of MgO and what type of bonding is responsible for its high melting point?

MgO appears as a white powder, and its high melting point is due to ionic bonding. Signup and view all the answers

What is the reaction of magnesium with steam and what are the products of this reaction?

Mg(s) + H2O(g) → MgO(s) + H2(g), and the products are magnesium oxide and hydrogen. Signup and view all the answers

What is the general trend in the reactivity of group 2 metals with cold water, and what is the significance of the hydroxides produced?

The reactivity of group 2 metals with cold water increases down the group, and the hydroxides produced make the water alkaline. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between the reaction of magnesium with steam and that with warm water?

The reaction with steam produces MgO and hydrogen, with a bright white flame, whereas the reaction with warm water produces Mg(OH)2 and hydrogen, with no flame. Signup and view all the answers

What are the properties of titanium that make it a useful metal?

Titanium is abundant, has a low density, and is corrosion resistant. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it not possible to extract titanium using carbon?

The reason is not specified in the text, but it is likely due to the high reactivity of titanium and the difficulty of reducing its oxide with carbon. Signup and view all the answers