4.12 - Reactions of the Group 2 Elements

Question 1

What happens when magnesium burns in air?

Answer 1

There is a very bright flame and the formation of a white solid

Question 2

How does this differ to when calcium burns in air?

Answer 2

Calcium burning in the air is more vigorous

Question 3

What is formed when a group 2 metal slowly reacts with oxygen?

Answer 3

A surface coating of oxide

Question 4

What does this help to prevent?

Answer 4

Further reaction

Question 5

What is the general equation for all of these reactions?

Answer 5

2M(s) + O2(g) -> 2MO(s)

Question 6

What are the products, and what do they contain?

Answer 6

Oxides containing M2+ and O2- ions

Question 7

Under what condition do group 2 metals react with chlorine?

Answer 7

When they are reacted with it in gaseous form

Question 8

What is the general equation for these chlorination reactions?

Answer 8

M(s) + Cl2(g) -> MCl2(s)

Question 9

What can be observed when a group 2 metal reacts with water?

Answer 9

Bubbles of hydrogen gas, fizzing

Question 10

What is the general equation for these reactions?

Answer 10

M(s) + 2H2O(aq) -> M(OH)2(aq) + H2(g)

Question 11

What is different about the reaction of calcium and water/

Answer 11

Calcium is only slightly soluble in water, so a precipitate of calcium hydroxide forms

Question 12

What are the products of the reaction between magnesium and hot steam?

Answer 12

Magnesium oxide and hydrogen gas

Question 13

Describe the appearance of MgO:

Answer 13

A white solid