What is the valence electron configuration for alkaline earth metals? List some common properties of alkaline earth metals. How are alkaline earth metals prepared? Predict the formulas of the compounds formed when an alkaline earth metal reacts with F 2 , O 2 , S, N 2 , H 2 , and H 2 O.

Interpretation: The valence electron configuration for alkaline earth metals and their common properties are to be stated. The preparation methods of alkaline earth metals are to be stated. The formulas of the compounds formed when an alkaline earth metals reacts with the given elements is to be predicted.

Concept introduction: Alkaline earth metals are highly reactive metals. They form ionic compound by losing two valence electrons and contains M2+ cation.

To determine: The valence electron configuration for alkaline earth metals and enlist their common properties; the preparation methods of alkaline earth metals; the formulas of the compounds formed when an alkaline earth metals reacts with F2, O2, S, N2, H2 and H2O .

Explanation

The valence electron configuration for alkaline earth metals is ns1 .

Alkaline earth metals are found in group 2A in the periodic table.

The common alkaline earth metals are,

• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Beryllium
• Barium
• Strontium

The valence electron configuration for alkaline earth metals is ns1 .

The common properties of alkaline earth metals are,

• All are metals.
• They are highly reactive metals.
• Alkaline earth metals exhibits +1 oxidation state.
• They form ionic compound by losing two valence electrons.
• They act as reducing agent because they lose electrons easily.

The common properties of alkaline earth metals are,

• All are metals.
• They are highly reactive metals.
• Alkaline earth metals exhibits +1 oxidation state.
• They form ionic compound by losing two valence electrons.
• They act as reducing agent because they lose electrons easily.

The preparation methods of alkaline earth metals are,

• Electrolytic reduction
• Chemical reduction

The preparation methods of alkaline earth metals are,

• Electrolytic reduction
• Chemical reduction

Alkaline earth metals are prepared by electrolytic reduction for their industrial use. In this method, they are reduced to their molten chlorides.

For example,

Calcium is obtained from their chlorides through electrolytic reduction.

CaCl2(l)→Ca(l)+Cl2(g)

Alkaline earth metals are also prepared by chemical reduction. For example,

Heating of limestone in presence of iron/silicon alloy leads to production of magnesium on a large scale.

2CaO⋅MgO(s)+Fe/Si(s)→115 °C2Mg(l)+Ca2SiO4(s)<