What is the trend in reactivity of Group 2 elements with halogens as the group is descended?

In group 2 elements, the reactivity is a measure of how easily the atoms lose outer shell electrons. An atom at the top of the group, such as magnesium, has less shells meaning the atomic radius is smaller, and the net attractive force from the nucleus on the outer shell electrons is greater, meaning it's harder to lose electrons to a halogen, i.e., it's less reactive. An atom at the bottom of the group, such as barium, is more reactive. This is because although the proton number has increased, increasing the attraction the nucleus has for outer shell electrons, the number of shells has also increased significantly. As a result, the electron shielding is far greater so the nuclear force exerted on outer shell electrons is weaker, and so it's easier for a halogen to take them in a reaction.

MF
Answered by Maria F. Chemistry tutor

9360 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the features of a benzene ring that define its reactivity. How does phenol differ from this?


Why does water have a higher boiling point than methane?


Describe the conditions used in the Haber Process and explain briefly why they are used.


Predict the relative boiling points of propanal, butane and prop-2-en-1-ol from the highest to the lowest boiling point


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning