Comparing Groups I & II

Question 1

What are the physical similarities of group I and II elements?

Answer 1

1. They are good conductors of heat and electricity.
2. Their ionic character increases down the group.
3. Melting and boiling points decrease down the group.
4. They form ionic salts.

Question 2

What are the physical differences between groups I and II?

Answer 2

1. Group II are harder metals.
2. Group II are smaller elements.
3. Group II have higher melting points.
4. Group II are more electronegative.

Question 3

What are the chemical property similarities in groups I and II?

Answer 3

1. They react with water to liberate hydrogen gas.
2. They tarnish readily in air.
3. They react with halogens to form halides.

Question 4

What are the chemical differences in groups I and II?

Answer 4

1. Group II only forms peroxides and monoxide while group I forms these AND superoxides.
2. Group II form nitrides while group I do not.
3. All group II carbonates thermally decompose while not all group I do so; Na and K are the ones that don’t decompose.
4. Group II carbonates do not dissolve in water.