the outer shell s2 electron configuration and the loss of these electrons in redox reactions to form 2+ ions
the outer shell s2 electron configuration and the loss of these electrons in redox reactions to form 2+ ions
the relative reactivities of the Group 2 elements Mg → Ba shown by their redox reactions with:
(i) oxygen (ii) water (iii) dilute acids
Reactions with acids will be limited to those producing a salt and hydrogen.
the trend in reactivity in terms of the first and second ionisation energies of Group 2 elements down the group (see also 3.1.1c)
Definition of second ionisation energy is not required, but learners should be able to write an equation for the change involved.
the action of water on Group 2 oxides and the approximate pH of any resulting solutions, including the trend of increasing alkalinity
uses of some Group 2 compounds as bases, including equations, for example (but not limited to):
(i) Ca(OH)2 in agriculture to neutralise acid soils (ii) Mg(OH)2 and CaCO3 as ‘antacids’ in treating indigestion.