How does the reactivity of group 2 elements change down the group, and what is the cause of this trend?

Each row on the periodic table represents a new energy level/electron shell. So as you go down the group there are more energy levels, increasing the atomic radius. The first electron to react will be on the outer shell.

The reactivity increases down the group from Mg to Ba. This is because the further away an electron is from the nucleus, the weaker its attraction and the more likely it is to react with another atom. More energy levels also means there is more nuclear ‘shielding’ from other electrons, further weakening the outer electrons’ attraction to the nuclei.

RR
Answered by Ruth R. Chemistry tutor

44896 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the optical activity of the product formed when propanone is refluxed with HCN with KCN dissolved in ethanol and why?


How do heterolytic catalysts work?


Write equations for the reaction of propanoic acid with methanol and name any organic products.


Explain the trend in first ionisation energy along period 3


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences