Alkaline earth metal

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/alkaline-earth-metal

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the atomic structure?General electron configuration ns², with two valence electrons readily lost
2. What is the oxidation state?+2 is the characteristic oxidation state for all members
3. What are alkaline earth metals?Alkaline earth metals are shiny, silvery metals found in Group 2 of the periodic table. They have two outer electrons that they easily lose to form +2 charged ions.
4. Why are calcium and magnesium important for our bodies?Calcium builds strong bones, helps muscles contract, and aids blood clotting. Magnesium works with many enzymes, helps make energy, and is the center of chlorophyll in plants.

Ionization Energy: The minimum energy required to remove an electron from a gaseous atom or ion.
Atomic Radius: A measure of the size of an atom, typically the mean distance from the center of the nucleus to the boundary of the surrounding electron cloud.
Radiocontrast Agent: A substance used to enhance the visibility of internal body structures in medical imaging techniques like X-rays.